Madison Reporter

Madison College has been honored as a 2024 Dane County Climate Champion for its efforts in reducing carbon emissions. Dane County Executive Jamie Kuhn, along with the Office of Energy and Climate Change (OECC), recently recognized Madison College and 31 other local entities for their leadership in climate action through the Dane County Climate Champions program.

“The participation of community residents, businesses, faith organizations, nonprofits, schools, and local governments are crucial to meeting the ambitious goals outlined in the Dane County Climate Action Plan,” Kuhn said. “I am proud to recognize this impressive class of new Climate Champions, representing so many different sectors.”

Madison College achieved 2024 Climate Champions status in three academic buildings:

- Early Learning Campus: This facility received three stars for Building Energy Use by consuming less than a quarter of the energy compared to similar buildings. Its 140kW solar array generates more electricity annually than the facility uses.

- Health Education Building: Also awarded three stars for Building Energy Use, it consumes about a quarter of the energy compared to similar buildings.

- Protective Services Building: Similarly rated with three stars for Building Energy Use, it uses approximately a quarter of the energy compared to comparable structures.

The Dane County Climate Action Plan aims to cut countywide emissions by half by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The OECC's Climate Champions program recognizes accomplishments across ten categories and is presenting 32 awards to 20 entities this year.

“This year’s Climate Champions are a showcase of what can be done locally to reduce emissions,” Kuhn said. “We thank them for their leadership, a true embodiment of Dane County’s commitment to leading by example.”

Further information on Madison College's commitment to renewable energy and its Renewable Energy Certificate can be found on their official channels.

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