MGE Offers Renewable Natural Gas Option

Our regulated utility subsidiary, Madison Gas and Electric (MGE), introduced this year a new sustainable energy option for interested natural gas customers. 

Green Power Tomorrow (GPT) renewable natural gas (RNG), known as GPT RNG, combines the environmental benefits of renewable energy with the reliability of natural gas. It’s an easy way for customers to advance sustainability and offset their greenhouse gas emissions from their natural gas use. MGE is the first utility in Wisconsin to offer this type of RNG option to customers. 

Unlike pipeline natural gas that is extracted from deep underground deposits, RNG is a processed biogas derived from organic waste. It also can be produced from degradable carbon sources, such as paper, cardboard and wood. 

Under the GPT RNG option, customers pay an incremental charge to participate. MGE purchases Renewable Thermal Certificates (RTCs) on behalf of the customer to offset the emissions associated with the customer’s monthly usage. Customers may select a set number of therms each month to offset through GPT RNG or a percentage of their monthly usage. MGE then purchases RTCs on the customer’s behalf, offsetting the emissions associated with the customer’s use of natural gas. Customers may learn more about GPT RNG at mge.com. 

Net-zero methane emissions by 2035 

Building on the company’s existing sustainability and clean energy goals, MGE has a goal to achieve net-zero methane emissions from its natural gas distribution system by 2035. MGE’s strategies for achieving net-zero methane emissions include enhanced leak detection and repair, implementation of cost-effective technologies and processes, and the introduction of RNG to offset residual emissions. Methane, which is a primary component of natural gas, is more than 25 times as potent as carbon dioxide. It can be emitted during the production, transmission and distribution of natural gas. Learn more about MGE’s strategies.