MGE Energy Inc. says its regulated subsidiary Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) will expand its Clean Power Partners solar energy program by more than three times.
MGE has received permission from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin to increase this pilot program from 300 kW to 1 MW, according to Gary Wolter, chairman, president and CEO.
In 2008, the program's capacity was doubled from its original 150 kW. Clean Power Partners is now fully subscribed with a total of 62 solar installations – 40 residential projects and 22 commercial/industrial projects. Clean Power Partners encourages customers to install solar photovoltaic systems on their homes or businesses and then sell the energy back to MGE for $0.25 per kWh.
MGE's green pricing program was recently recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory for having the second highest participation rate of all investor-owned utilities in the country, the utility notes.
SOURCE: MGE
