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Lansing, EL projects part of growth of ‘community’ solar in MI

Solar panels photo
Oregon Department of Transportation
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flickr creative commons

Globally, solar makes up only a miniscule portion of energy production, but that’s not dampening enthusiasm for solar on a local level, including in Lansing and East Lansing. It’s led to speculation that solar energy may be moving beyond growing pains. We talk with John Kinch of East Lansing’s Michigan Energy Options and John Sarver of the Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association.

Three weeks ago, officials gathered at the site of a retired landfill in East Lansing to announce a makeover. The Burcham Park landfill near Burcham Drive and Park Lake road soon will become home to a thousand solar panels. For $400, Lansing Board of Water and Light customers who want access to solar generated electricity can lease a panel for 25 years. A site in south Lansing will be home to a similar set-up.

According to some sources, these kinds of projects are becoming more common in Michigan and across the country.

Current State speaks with John Kinch, executive director of Michigan Energy Options, and John Sarver, executive director of the Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association.

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