MGE building solar array in Fitchburg

Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) received approval from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) to build a 20-megawatt (MW) solar array and 40-MW battery storage system in Fitchburg. According to a Wednesday, May 7 news release, known as the Sunnyside Solar Energy Center, the project will provide locally generated solar energy to MGE’s distribution system.

“As a sustainable community that believes that climate change is real, investing in renewable energy is great for the city,” wrote City of Fitchburg Mayor Julia Arata-Fratta in an email to the Star.

”MGE shares with our customers the goal of a more sustainable energy future,” said Jeff Keebler, MGE Chairman, President and CEO. “The Sunnyside Solar Energy Center builds on the progress we’ve already made reducing carbon emissions, increasing our use of cost-effective, locally generated renewable energy and advancing new technologies to benefit all our customers. By also working with customers to advance energy efficiency and electrification, we can achieve our sustainable energy goals.”

The Sunnyside Solar Energy Center will be located off Whalen Road in Fitchburg. The 20 MW of solar capacity are expected to generate enough electricity annually to serve about 6,000 households. The 40 MW of four-hour battery storage will provide electricity during times when energy demand is greatest and when renewable capacity is insufficient to meet all customer needs.

EDF Renewables is the project developer. The solar array is expected to begin serving customers in 2026; the battery storage is expected in 2027.