Consumers Energy plans to move forward with a new community solar program, called Solar Gardens, that will develop renewable energy sources with help from Michigan residents. Through the program, Consumers Energy could develop up to 10MW of solar energy at locations in the Michigan communities it serves. The first locations could be selected this summer and could be producing electricity next year.
"We are actively taking steps to take care of the environment and are excited to launch Solar Gardens," said Tim Sparks, Consumers Energy's vice president for energy supply operations. "We're developing renewable energy that will continue to help our state stay green for generations to come and provide our customers access to solar energy."
Further information will be available at the Michigan Renewable Energy Fair hosted by the Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association on June 26 and 27 at the Ingham County Fairgrounds.
Consumers Energy has been active in developing renewable energy sources in Michigan. Last year, the company reached its target of generating 10% of its electricity from renewable sources a year ahead of schedule. That includes two wind farms, one near Lake Michigan and one in the Thumb, and contracts to buy electricity generated by wind, landfill gas, anaerobic digestion, hydroelectric generation, and solar panels from more than 300 homes and businesses.