Alpena Community College solar array project nears completion with July power generation target
ALPENA, Mich. (WBKB) — Alpena Community College is advancing toward a more sustainable future as construction nears completion on its six-acre solar array project located near the Woodward Avenue Disc Golf Course.
The $4.6 million initiative received full funding through a state grant from the Michigan Public Service Commission. When operational, the solar installation is projected to generate 1.8 megawatts of power annually, providing significant energy savings for the college.
The project extends beyond cost savings, functioning as an extensive outdoor laboratory for students in the college’s electrical systems technology program. The hands-on learning environment will focus on grid management and renewable energy design, preparing students for careers in the growing clean energy sector.
“Renewables and solar panels and solar energy, work on the grid, upgrading the grid that is ongoing, you know, so, our it just is in training people to occupy jobs in that business. And there are jobs, and there are good jobs. So that was the main reason,” said Don MacMaster, ACC president.
Construction teams are working to meet the state-mandated completion deadline of August. College officials express optimism that the solar array could begin generating power as early as July, potentially ahead of the required timeline.
The timing aligns with peak summer energy demand, when the solar panels will operate at maximum efficiency. The early operational date would allow the college to begin realizing energy cost savings sooner than initially projected.
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