EGLE awards over $8.1 million for renewable energy projects throughout the state
LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, or EGLE, announced several communities are set to receive funding for renewable energy projects, totaling $8.1 million.
Funding comes from the fourth round of Renewables Ready Communities Awards (RRCA).
These projects will support deployment of 1,836 megawatts (MW) of solar power projects – enough clean energy to power more than 1,830,000 Michigan households and businesses, officials said.
The RRCA program gives funding to local governments to help fund community improvements and additional services for their residents, according to state officials.
Communities are provided incentives to build large-scale renewable energy projects.
The fourth-round awards will support eight local units of government for the following projects:
- $2,495,000 to Lee Township in Calhoun County for the Sunfish Solar 1 project and $1,545,000 for the Sunfish Solar 2 project
- $1,000,000 to Bethel Township in Branch County for the Branch Solar project
- $750,000 to Watertown Township in Sanilac County for the Watertown Solar project
- $625,000 to Parma Township in Jackson County for the Jackson County Solar project
- $600,000 to Hart Township in Oceana County for the Hart Solar project
- $570,000 to Meade Township in Huron County for the Silver Creek Solar Park project
- $297,500 to Barry County for the Spring Creek Solar project
- $250,000 to Bethany Township in Gratiot County for the Gratiot Solar Project
Lee Township in Calhoun County was awarded funds for three solar energy projects, combining to provide over 900 MW of solar energy.
“Lee Township is honored to be awarded a Renewables Ready Communities Award and will use the funds to improve township infrastructure,” said Township Attorney Catherine P. Kaufman.
The RRCA program is helping the state with its goal of 60% renewable energy, 100% clean energy, and 2,500 MW storage standards set in its 2023 landmark energy laws.