Dane County Celebrates Earth Day 2025 with Major Milestone: 100% Renewable Electricity Offset for All County Facilities

April 22, 2025
execmedia@danecounty.gov, 608-800-1127
County Executive, County Executive

MADISON – In a powerful show of Dane County’s environmental leadership, County Executive Melissa Agard today announced that, for the first time ever, every Dane County government facility is now 100% renewable electricity offset for a full calendar year.

 

“Earth Day isn’t just a moment—it’s a movement. And here in Dane County, we answer that call to action every single day,” said County Executive Melissa Agard. “From our lakes to our land, our people to our planet, we are investing in science-based solutions and taking bold steps to build a cleaner, greener, and more resilient future for all.”

 

Agard emphasized the significance of the county’s newest milestone: all county government facilities—libraries, highway garages, the job center, and more—are now powered by 100% renewable offset electricity. This achievement reflects years of strategic investments in clean energy projects and partnerships.

 

“This isn’t just a sticker on a door—it’s a symbol of a promise kept,” Agard said, referencing the new “Powered by 100% Renewable Electricity” decals that will now be displayed at county buildings. “It’s a public commitment to a more sustainable Dane County and a reminder that real progress is possible when we lead with purpose.”

 

Laura Hicklin, Director of the Land and Water Resources Department, spoke about the integration of clean energy into the county’s natural spaces.

 

“Our parks and natural areas aren’t just beautiful—they’re models for a sustainable future,” Hicklin said. “From solar panels to energy-efficient upgrades across our park system, we’re demonstrating how clean energy can be seamlessly woven into our environmental legacy. These forward-looking investments show what’s possible when conservation and innovation go hand in hand.”

 

Kathy Kuntz, who leads the Dane County Office of Energy and Climate Change, outlined how the County achieved the 100% renewable offset milestone and what lies ahead.

 

“We’ve made smart, forward-looking investments in clean energy that are paying off—both environmentally and financially,” Kuntz said. “This milestone is just one of many steps we’re taking to build a climate-resilient Dane County. From solar arrays to energy-efficient buildings, we are laying the foundation for a sustainable future.”

 

As County Executive Agard concluded, “Today, we celebrate how far we’ve come. And tomorrow, we keep going. Because protecting this incredible place we all call home is work worth doing—every day of the year.”