MGE has no controlling interest in coal-fired resources. In 2011, MGE discontinued the use of coal at the only generating facility in which we have sole ownership, our Blount Generating Station.
As part of MGE's ongoing transition away from coal, in early 2021, MGE and the co-owners of the Columbia Energy Center announced the planned early retirement of the plant. Both units at Columbia are expected to be retired by mid-2026, more than 10 years ahead of schedule. By 2027, with the planned retirements of both units at Columbia, MGE will have eliminated approximately two-thirds of the company's current coal-fired generation capacity. MGE is partnering in an effort to develop energy storage at the Columbia Energy Center site.
In fall 2021, MGE and the co-owners of the Elm Road Generating Station announced the plant's planned transition from coal to natural gas. By the end of 2030, MGE expects coal to be used only as a backup fuel at the facility, and by the end of 2032, MGE plans to have eliminated coal-fired generation from its portfolio.
Together, we can reach our goal of a cleaner, more sustainable future.
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