Smarter Energy, Better Learning

Saving energy has become a big part of how Monona Grove runs its schools. The district has taken on both big and small projects to cut costs, make schools more comfortable, and support a cleaner future for Wisconsin.
There’s now one of the biggest solar panel systems on any K–12 school in the state. 

All schools have LED lighting, better heating and cooling systems, and advanced building controls to keep things running smoothly and efficiently.

“You’ve teamed up with Focus on Energy and your local utilities to make sure every dollar really counts,” said Commissioner Kristy Nieto from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin. “Not just for today, but for years down the road.”

Savings That Help Students

For local taxpayers, these savings are a big win. Less money spent on energy means more money for education.
School Board President Elizabeth Cook said, “These efforts are not only reducing our environmental impact, but they’re also saving the district about $250,000 a year — enough to fund three new teachers.”
That money can now be used for classroom materials, technology, and programs that support students — all without raising costs for the community.

Learning from Energy Efficiency

Energy upgrades aren’t just saving money — they’re also part of what students are learning. Every day, students see solar panels in action and learn how energy and technology work together to protect the environment.
State Representative Shelia Stubbs explained, “Monona Grove School District has achieved its mission to create a sustainable, energy-efficient learning environment by installing a 674-kilowatt solar array on the high school roof. It powers about half of the school’s electricity.”

Inside the schools, better systems are keeping the air fresh, and temperatures steady all year. One of the district’s facilities engineer explained it best:

“This building was wrapped and so efficient that even on the coldest days of the year, the second floor sometimes needs air conditioning by the afternoon. It stays steady and comfortable all year long, which makes a big difference for our students and staff.”
These improvements also mean fewer maintenance problems, better attendance, and students who are ready to focus and learn.

Health, Comfort, and Long-Term Benefits

Dr. Tanya Fredrich, Monona Grove School District Superintendent summed it up: “For us, energy efficiency isn’t just about saving money. When we have high-efficiency HVAC and good lighting, students are happier, healthier, and able to learn and thrive.”

By combining renewable energy with modern systems, Monona Grove is building schools that cost less to run and give more back to students, staff, and the whole community.

Every upgrade supports a shared goal:

• Students learn in cleaner, brighter classrooms.
• Teachers work in more comfortable spaces.
• Taxpayers see savings that go straight back into education.

Leading the Way in Wisconsin

Monona Grove School District shows what’s possible when a community plans ahead. With support from Focus on Energy, Alliant Energy, MG&E and McKinstry, the district is helping shape a cleaner, smarter future for Wisconsin — one where energy savings go hand in hand with student success.
Congratulations to Monona Grove School District, winner of the 2025 Focus on Energy Efficiency Excellence Award!