March 30, 2010
Detroit, MI, USA: Detroit Edison Looks for Solar Host Facilities
Detroit Edison is looking for several businesses and educational institutions with large rooftops or ground area to host solar energy installations that will provide renewable energy and reduce their energy bills.
The utility is starting another aspect of its pilot SolarCurrents program that calls for photovoltaic systems installed on customer rooftops or property to generate 15 megawatts (MW) of electricity throughout its Southeast Michigan service area over the next five years.
"SolarCurrents represents one of the largest distributed solar programs in the country, which will provide opportunities to the emerging solar manufacturing industry," said Trevor Lauer, DTE Energy vice president, Retail Marketing. "The program also will encourage the development of new green energy projects by providing financial incentives to non-residential customers interested in solar energy systems."
Detroit Edison plans to invest more than $100 million in the program, which requires customers to participate for 20 years. The solar energy systems will be owned, installed, operated and maintained by the utility. In return, customers will get an annual credit on their energy bill based on the system size, as well as a one-time, upfront construction payment to cover any inconvenience during installation.
The utility is accepting applications until April 29.
