MADISON, WIS., Nov. 29, 2005 — Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) and the City of Madison announced a joint new initiative to invest $1.8 million on "green energy" projects over eight years.
Specifically, the funds will be used for energy conservation and efficiency projects, renewable resources and improved air quality within the city of Madison.

The new joint initiative is the latest in a long history of collaboration and partnership between MGE and the City, including numerous energy efficiency projects at City facilities, a joint Climate Protection Plan and sponsorship of the neighborhood Environmental Action Team (EnAct) program.

Under this new initiative, we anticipate major investments in energy efficiency. Potential projects may include:

• Demonstrating efficiency retrofits at existing City facilities; for example, the Madison Municipal Building.
• Energy efficiency investments in CDA housing.
• Solar photovoltaic projects on East Washington Avenue's "Solar Mile."
• Domestic solar water heating for the municipal pool's showers and other facilities.
• Monona Terrace LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) retrofits.

Projects chosen will be consistent with the recommendations of the report of the Mayor's Energy Task Force, "Building A Green Capital City."

Each year, MGE will invest $150,000 directly and grant the City $75,000 for eligible projects.

The initiative includes the investment earlier this year in the clean fuel alternative, ultra low sulfur diesel, for Madison Metro Transit buses. Future projects will be announced as they are decided.

"This partnership with Madison Gas and Electric is a major step forward in improving Madison's energy efficiency and environmental quality," said Mayor Dave Cieslewicz. "The projects that we pursue through this partnership will save taxpayers money by making City facilities more energy efficient while improving the quality of our air and water."

"MGE has long been committed to promoting energy efficiency to all our customers. We also have been fortunate to have the City as a partner in many of those efforts. Mayor Cieslewicz's vision and leadership will help take the city even further," said Gary Wolter, MGE Chairman, President and CEO.