Burns & McDonnell has broken ground on a new 297 MWDC solar facility for Consumers Energy, the utility’s first large-scale solar project. The project, expected to be completed in 2026, is a key part of Consumers Energy’s plan to add 8,000 MW of utility-scale solar by 2040.
Burns & McDonnell is leading the project using an integrated engineer-procure-construct (EPC) approach. The company’s integrated EPC scope also includes site permitting, substation construction and interconnection generation. The Burns & McDonnell team consists of the company’s self-performed construction division, AZCO, and works closely with local and other union workers in Michigan.
“We are excited to partner with local tradespeople and union halls across Michigan to build solar energy within the state,” said Drew Powers, construction project manager at Burns & McDonnell. “This project not only helps Consumers Energy move forward in the field of renewable energy, but also supports the local economy.”
The Muskegon Solar Energy Center, located on 1,900 acres, is expected to generate enough energy to power approximately 40,000 homes annually.
“Consumers Energy has some of the most ambitious clean energy goals in the country and advancing projects like this has put us on a clear path to achieving them,” said David Hicks, VP of clean energy development at Consumers Energy. “Every project we bring online helps lower bills for our customers in the long run, while also generating significant tax revenue for the community and better serving our planet. That’s a win for everyone, and we’re proud to be working with Burns & McDonnell to see this project come to fruition.”
Some key components of the project include First Solar Series 7 modules, Array Technology trackers, Siemens Gamesa inverters and Shoals Technologies Group and CAB Solar Cable Management tools.
“We are excited to help build out solar and drive low energy costs and renewable energy penetration in the great state of Michigan,” said Scott Newland, senior VP of infrastructure at Burns & McDonnell.
News item from Burns & McDonnell
