Detroit-based DTE Energy has completed three new solar projects in Avoca, Brownstown and Romulus, Mich., bringing the company’s total number of utility-owned solar arrays in operation to 26.
“DTE Energy is proud to be leading Michigan as the state’s largest investor and producer of both wind and solar energy,” says Irene Dimitry, vice president of business and development at DTE Energy. “Since 2009, DTE has invested more than $67 million in solar energy, supporting a cleaner, greener environment and a more sustainable future for our communities.”
The three new project include the following:
DTE’s Greenwood Energy Center: At 1.95 MW, the new array in Avoca, located northwest of Port Huron, can produce enough to power 329 homes and became the largest active solar array in Michigan when it began operations on Jan. 29, according to DTE.
DTE Romulus Solar Array: Located on Citrin Drive near Interstate 94 and Middlebelt Road, this array can produce 750 kW, enough to power 126 homes; it started operations on Dec. 21, 2015.
DTE Brownstown Township: The 500 kW array, located on Pennsylvania Road near Interstate 75 and Pennsylvania Road, can produce enough power for 84 homes and became operational on Dec. 29, 2015.
In addition to DTE’s 26 currently operating solar arrays, the company has four more solar projects under development, including an array in Ypsilanti, at the GM Warren Transmission plant, and two large-scale arrays in Lapeer. The larger of the Lapeer solar projects is 30 MW. The addition of these projects will help position DTE Energy to exceed a state mandate requiring electric utilities to supply 10% of their electricity from renewable energy sources every year from 2015 to 2029.
Today, DTE’s entire renewable energy portfolio, including solar, wind and biomass, is capable of generating nearly 1 GW. The portfolio includes facilities owned and operated by DTE Energy, along with contracts to purchase power from third-party developers in Michigan.
Photo courtesy of DTE Energy: The 1.95 MW Greenwood Energy Center in Avoca.
