Michigan-based DTE Energy has received approval from the Detroit City Council to develop one of the largest urban solar power arrays in the country on a 10-acre vacant parcel of land in Detroit at the former O’Shea Park, near Interstate 96 and Greenfield Road.
The company says the 2 MW project will generate more than $1 million in tax revenue for the City of Detroit over the life of the 20-year lease and will produce enough clean energy to power approximately 450 homes. DTE plans to begin construction on the project in May, with completion scheduled for year-end.
“DTE Energy is proud to be a partner with the City of Detroit on this solar project that will utilize 10 acres of Detroit’s blighted and unused land and re-energize the surrounding neighborhoods,” says David Meador, vice chairman and chief administrative officer of DTE Energy. “Not only will this new solar array enable DTE to deliver more clean energy to our customers, [but] it is also a part of our efforts to help spur economic growth and prosperity in the neighborhoods we serve.”
In addition to the increased tax revenue for Detroit, the solar project is a part of the city’s efforts to beautify the park.
“This partnership with DTE Energy is a perfect example of how public-private partnerships can stabilize and strengthen our neighborhoods,” says Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. “This vacant property soon will be put back to use in a way that is good for the neighborhood and good for the environment.”
DTE adds it has four other Michigan solar projects currently under development, including an array in Ypsilanti, one at the GM Warren Transmission plant, and two large-scale projects in Lapeer. By the end of the year, DTE will have 31 solar arrays in operation.
According to DTE, the new solar projects will help expand its renewable energy generation beyond the 10% required by Michigan’s renewable portfolio standard. DTE is continuing to evaluate additional wind and solar energy projects across the state.
