Consumers Energy has announced plans to construct a large-scale solar project in Kalamazoo County near Richland Township, providing 220 MW of renewable energy to Michigan’s grid by 2027. This project is a part of the company’s clean energy plan, beginning construction in 2026. It will add more than 8000 MW of renewable energy, marking a milestone toward meeting Consumers Energy’s goal.

Part of Consumers Energy’s Clean Energy Commitment

The project will allow Liberty Farms Solar to power nearly 52,000 homes annually. Consumers Energy will transmit the renewable energy through its voluntary Renewable Energy Program to serve commercial and residential customers. This initiative supports Michigan’s clean energy shift, with Consumers Energy urging residents to join its Renewable Energy Program.

David Hicks, Consumers Energy’s vice president of clean energy development, said, “In addition to its environmental benefits, solar is cost competitive and provides reliable energy without the use of fossil fuel plants.”

Community Collaboration and Economic Benefits for Richland Township

The solar project will also have economic benefits to the local community. Richland Township will get personal property taxes from the investment, which will benefit the township, county, and school district. The project will generate millions in taxes over 30-plus years, giving a significant economic boost to the local community.

Bear Priest, Richland Township supervisor, expressed appreciation for Consumers Energy’s collaboration with local leaders. “We appreciate Consumers Energy’s desire to work with us locally instead of seeking approval directly from the State.”

He added, “It’s important that we work together to develop a project that best fits Richland Township.”

Also read: Consumers Energy expands clean energy initiative to help customers

Consumers Energy is the largest utility in Michigan serving 6.8 million people across 68 counties of the Lower Peninsula. he company’s clean energy plan includes decreasing coal as an energy source by 2025.This will reduce carbon emissions to net zero and provide clean energy sources such as wind and solar to satisfy 90 percent of customer energy needs.

The European Investment Bank has agreed to provide PLN 225 million in funding for the sustainable urban development of Kiecle, a city in South-Eastern Poland. This initiaitve will improve the urban infrastructure, transportation systems and environmental policies which aligns with the city’s climate goals. The funding is divided into two phases with the first PLN 112 million agreement signed to start the investment.

EIB’s Commitment to Medium-Sized Cities

Teresa Czerwińska, Vice-President of the EIB, said, “Promoting dynamic development of medium-sized cities is one of the EIB’s key lines of action. As the EU’s climate bank, the EIB finances upgrades to and expansion of top-notch urban infrastructure, as well as climate and environmental projects, especially in cohesion regions. Last year, the EIB allocated almost €2.4 billion to sustainable development of regions and cities in Poland.”

She added, “Thanks to the EIB loan, Kielce will be able to enhance city greeneries, transport network and sports facilities, carrying out investments that bring tangible benefits to inhabitants. Through this partnership with Kielce, and similar ones with Rybnik, Chorzów and Radom, the EIB contributes to improving the quality of life for people in Poland, including those living outside the largest centres.”

Boosting Kielce’s Urban Transformation

The EIB’s long-term funding will help Kielce co-finance key urban projects, also receiving direct grants from the EU. These combined resources will ensure the effective implementation of initiatives across the city. Mayor Agata Wojda of Kielce outlined plans to modernize central areas, develop a business incubator, and invest in public transport.

Since 2022, the EIB has signed 24 financing agreements with Polish cities and municipal companies, totaling over €1.7 billion. In the past three years, the bank has invested €7.89 billion in sustainable urban projects, benefiting large and medium-sized cities.

Also read: EIB Approves €2.4 Billion for Energy, Infrastructure and Global Projects

In addition to Kielce, the EIB has worked with other cities like Chorzów and Radom to support their sustainable development. Chorzów Mayor Szymon Michałek is optimistic that EIB funding will help the city invest in urban infrastructure and environmental protection. He believes these investments will make Chorzów more competitive regionally and improve residents’ quality of life.

Radom is using EIB funds to build nurseries, social housing, create green spaces, and improve energy efficiency in public buildings. Mayor Radosław Witkowski of Radom said the EIB partnership will bring economic benefits and continued growth, meeting residents’ expectations.

Piotr Kuczera, Mayor of Rybnik, also praised EIB funding for making the city greener and more attractive, benefiting local residents.