Join us for our Setpember Sustainable Breakfast Series to learn about our local energy system.
Our Local Energy Grid: Safe, Reliable, Affordable & Sustainable
Energy is essential to our daily lives, from heating and cooling our homes to powering businesses, transportation, and the technology we rely on every day. As communities work to reduce carbon emissions while maintaining a reliable and affordable energy system, the way we produce, store, and use energy is changing.
Join us for a look at how our energy system works and what it takes to transition to a cleaner energy future. We’ll hear from Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) representatives about the energy grid, the company’s goals for reducing carbon emissions and its roadmap for achieving net-zero carbon electricity by 2050. They’ll share updates on renewable energy and battery storage projects underway and planned for the future, as well as the opportunities and challenges involved in building a cleaner, more reliable energy system.
Together, we’ll explore:
- How the electric grid works and how electricity gets from generation to our homes and businesses
- The role of renewable energy, energy storage, and other technologies in the transition to a cleaner energy system
- MGE’s goals and roadmap for achieving net-zero carbon electricity by 2050
- The opportunities and challenges communities face as our energy system evolves
Tuesday, September 29, 8:30AM—9:30AM
We will meet in person at the Spark Building, Starting Block Café (3rd Floor). Doors will open at 8 AM for networking.
Spark Building, Starting Block Café (3rd Floor)
821 E Washington Ave, Madison, WI 53703
Agenda
- Breakfast & Networking 8:00—8:30 AM
- Program 8:30—9:30 AM
- Networking 9:30—10:00 AM
Brenda Sargent is the Manager of Environmental Affairs at Madison Gas and Electric (MGE), where she leads environmental compliance, greenhouse gas accounting, and the evaluation of emerging environmental issues. With more than 25 years of experience in environmental compliance across the utility, consulting, and manufacturing sectors, she brings a broad perspective and deep expertise to her work. Outside of her professional role, Brenda enjoys exploring Wisconsin’s natural beauty with her family and can often be found canoeing, hiking, and spending time outdoors.
Nick Schroeder is a seasoned utility engineering manager with 25 years of experience in planning, designing, operating, and maintaining gas and electrical distribution systems at Madison Gas & Electric. He is currently the Director of Energy Planning and Market Operations at MGE, overseeing the development of the Company’s future generation portfolio and strategic planning. Nick holds a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana. Nick’s broad expertise in utility operations and management allows him to provide valuable insights on the direction of Wisconsin’s energy future.
Dave Benforado has worked in the Wisconsin utility industry since 1995, and at MGE since 2013. In his current MGE role as Senior Community Services Manager, he engages with neighborhood groups and community organizations, and works with residential customers regarding MGE’s EV and renewable energy programs. He serves as an MGE representative on the Sustain Dane Board. Outside of MGE, he was elected to the Shorewood Hills Village Board (2004-2023), and as Shorewood Hills Village President (2017-2023). He enjoys bicycling (to work when the weather is nice!) and hiking, most recently trying to hike portions of the 1,000 mile Ice Age Trail through Wisconsin.
Scholarships
Complimentary tickets to all staff of member organizations. Sliding scale/scholarships also available for nonmembers. Please contact sonali@sustaindane.org to learn more.
Access
Doors to the building open at 8 AM, enter the building through the breezeway / main entrance (it’s on the SW side). Registering here gets you on our guest list, please bring a photo ID for possible front door confirmation with security.
Parking
Paid parking is available in the South Livingston Parking Garage attached to the Arts + Literature Lab building. 111 S Livingston St, Madison, WI 53703. Free street parking is generally available nearby.
Bus Routes
The Spark Building is accessible via bus routes A and B.