#United States #Jackson #Consumers Energy #Hecate Energy #Sunfish Solar

Consumers Energy and Hecate Energy Unveil Sunfish Solar 2 Project

Consumers Energy, Michigan's leading energy supplier, has officially broken ground on the Sunfish Solar 2 project, a substantial renewable energy initiative in partnership with Hecate Energy. This ambitious project, boasting a capacity of 360 megawatts (MW), is being constructed in Lee Township, Calhoun County, and aims to support the state’s transition towards cleaner energy solutions.

The site preparation has begun, with the engineering firm Bechtel spearheading initial construction efforts. This initiative is projected to be completed by Q2 2026 and is anticipated to provide enough energy to power approximately 69,000 homes in Michigan. As part of Consumers Energy's commitment to enhance its renewable energy capacity, this project represents a significant step towards the company’s goal of generating 8,000 MW of solar power by the year 2040.

According to David Hicks, Vice President of Clean Energy Development at Consumers Energy, “Sunfish Solar 2 underscores our commitment to achieving ambitious clean energy targets while providing measurable benefits to our customers.” The clean energy produced from this solar facility will be primarily supplied to customers participating in their Renewable Energy Program, an initiative aimed at fostering sustainable energy practices.

Hecate Energy has been pivotal in the collaborative development of this project. With its extensive experience in renewable power generation, the company is dedicated to creating high-quality jobs and supporting sustainability efforts across Michigan. Chris Bullinger, President and CEO of Hecate, noted, “By merging our expertise with Consumers Energy's sustainability goals, we are generating significant employment opportunities while propelling Michigan’s renewable energy initiatives forward.”

The construction of Sunfish Solar 2 is expected to yield more than 350 unionized jobs and stimulate the local economy with an estimated $225 million in direct and indirect economic impacts. Bechtel will prioritize hiring workers from the West-Central Michigan area, contributing upwards of $50 million in labor income to the community. Such economic activities are critical for reinforcing local infrastructures, including essential services like schools and emergency services, as the project fosters resilience and sustainable growth.

Furthermore, the project aligns with Michigan’s broader environmental objectives, aiming for 50% of energy to come from renewable sources by 2030. Brad Shrontz, the Lee Township Supervisor, expressed pride in being part of this renewable energy movement, emphasizing the project's potential to improve employment opportunities and promote local economic development.

About Consumers Energy

Consumers Energy is the premier energy provider in Michigan, serving natural gas and electricity to approximately 6.8 million residents across the state. The company has laid out an ambitious Clean Energy Plan, targeting the phase-out of coal by 2025 and aspiring to achieve net-zero carbon emissions, alongside meeting 90% of energy demands through renewable sources, primarily wind and solar.

About Hecate Energy

Founded in 2012, Hecate Energy has established itself as a major player in the renewable energy sector, successfully developing 4.1 GWs of projects to operational status. The organization is committed to building sustainable and collaborative relationships within the communities hosting its projects, ensuring that local needs and interests are prioritized. With a diverse range of projects, Hecate continues to expand its renewable energy footprint across the United States, including solar and energy storage initiatives worth over $6 billion in asset value.

This transformative project marks a significant milestone in the journey towards a sustainable energy future for not only Michigan but also serves as a model for other states seeking to enhance their renewable energy capacities.