Local Leaders Break Ground on New Solar Panel

A new development is working to keep jobs and money right here in Michigan with renewable energy.

Governor Granholm joined local leaders to break ground on Lansing's new solar panel array.

Soon a field in downtown Lansing will be filled with 432 solar panels that will supply Lansing with renewable power. Governor Granholm says she is excited Michigan is at the forefront of green energy.

Granholm says, "We do not want to be following other states in this because this really is about job creation and diversifying our economy."

The football sized field will be most valuable during periods of peak demands - primarily hot summer days which is also when power is the most expensive. The Board of Water and Light says while the project costs about $600,000 it will not raise rates for consumers.

"This particular project we've been very lean at the BWL lately and we've put this project into our budget so there will be no rate increase for this, it's part of this years budget," says Peter Lark, general manager for the Board of Water and Light.

On top of the benefits of renewable energy the panels will also benefit Michigan's economy. The solar panels are bulit by a company based in Greenville, MI and will also be installed by Michigan workers. Project organizers say they are pleased to be able to keep the entire project local and keep the money in Michigan. Both Governor Granholm and Mayor Bernero agree this is just the first of many more Michigan based energy projects.

Bernero says, "It's going to be the biggest in Michigan, I just want to say so far, we intend for there to be many more installations of these solar panels. This is really just the tip of the iceburg, you will be seeing more solar panels installed, more wind turbines, we are serious about pushing alternative energy."

The Board of Water and Light says if all goes as planned, the panels will be operational before the end of the year.