This week, Madison Gas and Electric announced that it will invest $1.8 million in the City of Madison's 'green energy' initiatives over the next eight years, including supporting projects such as solar power for new business on East Washington Avenue and more cleanly-burning diesel fuel for Madison's transit system.
The official partnership marks a turning point in the traditionally-informal relationship between Madison and MGE.
With city officials hoping to continue Madison's tradition of spearheading environmental health initiatives, project selections will begin early next year with ideas for environmentally-friendly development already on the table. Narrowing which improvements to pursue will be challenging.
'There are a lot of different projects right now, but flexibility is what we are focusing on,' said George Twigg, spokesperson for Mayor Dave Cieslewicz.
As part of Cieslewicz's healthy city proposals, issues such as air and water quality are receiving increased attention.
City officials, however, will not have the last word on how the $1.8 million will be used.
'MGE has the final say on where money is spent, but will work closely with the city to help identify areas where energy conservation can be achieved with relatively small investments,' MGE spokesperson Steve Stezeskrus said.
The city also intends to continue with previous plans involving the use of ultra-low sulfur diesel for the Metro system. The alternative fuel strategy is aimed at improving overall air quality in the city, especially during the summer when the danger of low-level ozone is higher.
But Randy Cortright, UW-Madison associate professor of chemical engineering, said vehicles are the leading cause of air pollution in Madison.
'Incorporating cleaner-burning fuels reduces the amount of smog that can produce dangerous ozone, but reducing the amount of cars on the road and encouraging hybrid technology will be even more beneficial,' Cortright said.
With plans geared toward creating efficiency in public structures such as the Madison Municipal Building, the city seeks to promote new energy conservation methods and save taxpayers' dollars. In a press release, MGE Chair, President and CEO Gary Wolter said MGE is 'committed to promoting energy efficiency' for its customers.
Wolter said MGE was 'fortunate' to be working with the city.
'Mayor Cieslewicz's vision and leadership will help take the city even further,' he said.
