Geronimo Energy (Geronimo), a National Grid company, has started construction of two Michigan solar projects for which Consumers Energy (Consumers) previously executed Power Purchase Agreements (PPA).
The projects, Bingham and Temperance, are part of a solar portfolio called MiSolar Portfolio and are located in Clinton and Monroe counties, respectively.
Both projects are expected to begin operations by the end of this year. Geronimo has contracted with Michigan-based Engineering, Construction, and Procurement (EPC) contractor, J. Ranck Electric (JRE), to construct the projects.
“We look forward to furthering Geronimo’s commitment to the state of Michigan. Solar projects like these are not possible without the collective support of customers like Consumers, partners like J. Ranck, and local residents who live in the project communities. Together with these key stakeholders, we are excited to start construction and begin to provide the associated local benefits to the people in the great state of Michigan, such as new tax revenue, in-state spending, and job creation.”
David Reamer, president for Geronimo Energy.
Combined, the projects will produce 40 megawatts (MW) alternating current of clean, solar energy and will power an estimated 8,000 Michigan homes. Together with its affiliated entities, Geronimo Energy will own and operate both solar projects, and Consumers Energy will purchase the energy they produce.
Using the United States’ Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) greenhouse gas equivalencies calculator, the combined projects are estimated to offset carbon dioxide emissions by 50,000 metric tons annually.
“With these projects, we’ll put an estimated 120 Michigan construction workers on the job and further J.Ranck Electric’s role in growing our state’s renewable energy infrastructure. We could not be more proud and excited to work with Consumers Energy and Geronimo to build these solar projects.”
JRE’s business development director Scott Walker .
“We are encouraged to work with Geronimo on these solar projects in Clinton and Monroe counties, which will increase renewable energy in Michigan and build momentum to help us fulfill our Clean Energy Plan. Consumers Energy along with clean energy developers are committed to working with our community neighbors to build a cleaner energy future for Michigan.”
Timothy Sparks, vice president of Electric Grid Integration for Consumers Energy.
