First-of-its-kind project trains the future energy workforce

MADISON, Wis. — Madison College celebrated a major sustainability milestone with an Earth Week ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new solar plus energy storage system at the Truax campus.

The project serves as a model for high-performance buildings in cold climates, like Wisconsin, by combining geothermal heating and cooling, solar energy and battery storage into one highly efficient system.  

Designed to enhance reliability, reduce environment impact and lower operating costs, the system also creates a hands-on learning laboratory for students and educators.

“At our campuses, students gain hands-on experience with innovative technologies that prepare them for clean energy careers,” said Madison College President Dr. Jennifer Berne. “At the same time, we are advancing sustainable, reliable energy solutions for our region. It is particularly meaningful to celebrate this new solar investment during Earth Week.” 

College’s first-of-its-kind project 

Key features of the large-scale battery energy storage installation at the Protective Services Building include:

  • 180 kWdc ground-mounted solar array with 360 bifacial panels for higher winter energy production
  • Double-sided solar panels that boost energy production by 10-20%
  • Battery energy storage capable of operating in temperatures as low as 1°F
  • Seasonally adjustable solar racking to maximize year-round performance
  • Integration with geothermal heating and cooling for a fully electric, high-efficiency building system
  • A 30+ year lifespan with an estimated 8–10-year payback

Living laboratory for students and educators

The project provides a hands-on learning environment where students study solar performance in programs such as Renewable Energy Certificate, Electrical Apprenticeship, Electrical Technical Diploma, Construction Technical Diploma, Industrial Maintenance AS, Electromechanical Technology AS and Architecture AS.

Faculty and national partners also use the site, through the CREATE Energy Center, as a case study for replication across the country.

“This solar plus storage installation provides infrastructure for training students for skilled technical careers in the energy workforce,” said Madison College instructor Ken Walz. “Most importantly, the energy sector provides jobs that cannot be exported, are not easily replaced by automation, and pay family-supporting wages. Our graduates can feel proud knowing their work benefits both the planet and their communities.”

Native prairie plantings surrounding the solar array improve biodiversity and land health, reinforcing the college’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

The $665,000 Solar Plus Energy Storage project was supported in part by a $435,000 award from the Wisconsin Energy Innovation Grant Program.

“This project demonstrates Madison College’s commitment to protecting our planet, responsibly stewarding our operations and advancing our mission to serve students,” said Dr. Sylvia Ramirez, Madison College Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration.

This initiative reflects Madison College’s broader sustainability strategy to reduce energy use and emissions, strengthen energy resilience for critical services and prepare students for careers in the clean energy economy.

In 2017, Madison College created a solar roadmap to implement solar projects on all campus buildings. Over the past decade, the college has commissioned multiple solar installations and completed nearly 2/3 of its goal. As of 2026, the college operates nine solar PV systems totaling over 3MW of combined capacity, contributing roughly $400,000 worth of electricity annually for campus operations.

The April 20 ribbon-cutting event marked the start of a series of Earth Week events, during which Madison College students and employees participated in environmental activities, including tours, workshops, trash pickup and a sustainability fair.

Photos: https://we.tl/t-tefEZzJyExqT5Rma