Detroit Kicks off Construction on First Solar Field To Power City Buildings

Work started Monday on a 42-acre solar site in Detroit's Van Dyke-Lynch area. This marks the start of a bigger plan to turn 165 acres of unused land into power sources for city buildings.

"It's a perfect day for solar energy," said Mayor Mike Duggan at the groundbreaking ceremony, according to The Detroit News. The site will make 10 megawatts of power for city structures, from rec centers to police and fire stations.

This site leads the way for four more planned fields across the city. Next up is Greenfield Park in 2026, with more to follow in Gratiot Findlay, State Fair, and Houston Whittier areas.

DTE Energy picked spots where 1,400 properties once stood. The city paid well above market rates - homeowners got either double fair value or $90,000, picking the higher amount. Those who rented received $15,000 to relocate.

Families who live near the sites won't miss out. About 60 homes will get upgrades - new windows, better insulation, and modern water heaters. These changes should cut their monthly bills.

"We will beautify the solar park with trees, shrubs, and other landscaping including a welcome sign to ensure neighbors see that this is a wonderful addition to the community," said Joi Harris, president and CEO of DTE Energy.

Scott Benson from the City Council stressed the green benefits. "This array will allow Detroit to significantly offset our municipal greenhouse gas footprint, taking a huge bite out of our carbon emissions," he said according to Click on Detroit.

The project opens doors for workers too. Through Communities Power Solar Training Academy, DTE backs seven students learning to install commercial solar panels.

Crews have started work in two other spots. By early 2027, all five sites should be done, switching old vacant lots into clean power sources for Detroit's 127 city buildings.