Consumers Energy Launches Muskegon Solar, Its Largest Project Ever, Generating 250 MW To Power 40,000 Michigan Homes

Consumers Energy has announced that Muskegon Solar, the company’s largest solar power project to date, has officially begun operations. The project marks a major step forward in expanding clean energy generation in Michigan. Located on 1,900 acres at the Muskegon Resource Recovery Center, Muskegon Solar generates 250 megawatts of electricity, which is sufficient to power approximately 40,000 homes and businesses across the state. The construction phase of the project also supported local economic growth by creating more than 200 construction jobs.

Sri Maddipati, Consumers Energy’s president of electric supply, noted that the company is focused on building the electric grid of the future to reliably serve communities across Michigan. He explained that Muskegon Solar represents the type of reliable and cost-effective energy solutions the company is investing in to meet the evolving needs of its customers. Muskegon Solar is the largest solar installation currently operated by Consumers Energy and significantly surpasses the company’s other solar projects, which include facilities at Western Michigan University, Grand Valley State University, and a project in Cadillac.

The company continues to expand its energy portfolio with additional solar, wind, natural gas, and battery storage projects throughout the state. In its effort to innovate and improve efficiency, Consumers Energy incorporated advanced technology into the Muskegon Solar project. The site features more than 550,000 solar panels installed in 5,200 rows. These panels are designed to rotate throughout the day, tracking the sun’s movement from sunrise to sunset to maximize energy production.

Chad Cotter, vice president in the construction group at Burns & McDonnell, praised the work that went into building the project. He noted that Muskegon Solar reflects the skill and dedication of the local workforce and emphasized the company’s pride in partnering with Consumers Energy on such a significant development for the region. Maddipati extended gratitude to Moorland Township and Muskegon County for their support throughout the project. He added that Consumers Energy looks forward to generating more clean energy in Michigan and serving the needs of local communities for years to come.