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Consumers Energy is planning to build a large solar farm in Kalamazoo County, near Richland Township. Called Liberty Farms Solar, the project will generate 220 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy and is set to be completed by 2027, with construction starting in 2026. This project is part of Consumers Energy’s Clean Energy Plan, which aims to add more than 8,000 MW of renewable energy by 2040. Once operational, Liberty Farms Solar will produce enough electricity to power 52,000 homes each year. The energy generated will support both residential and commercial customers who participate in the company’s voluntary Renewable Energy Program. In addition to providing clean energy, the project will create jobs and help boost the local economy. 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.” Bear Priest, Richland Township supervisor, stated “We appreciate Consumers Energy’s desire to work with us locally instead of seeking approval directly from the State. It’s important that we work together to develop a project that best fits Richland Township.” Consumers Energy partners with local leaders to develop solar projects that bring both environmental and economic benefits to their communities. Richland Township will gain from the company’s investment through local, county, and school district personal property taxes, adding up to millions of dollars over the project’s 30-year lifespan. As Michigan’s largest energy provider, Consumers Energy supplies natural gas and electricity to 6.8 million residents across all 68 counties in the Lower Peninsula. The company’s Clean Energy Plan aims to eliminate coal as a power source by 2025, reach net-zero carbon emissions, and meet 90% of customer energy needs with clean sources like wind and solar. |
