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The University of Michigan is set to invest $70 million in solar arrays across all three of its campuses, following a vote by the University’s Board of Regents. Houston-based sustainable energy firm, Radial Power, chosen from 16 responding firms, will be responsible for the installation, which is expected to provide 20 megawatts of power for the Ann Arbor campus and five megawatts of power shared between the Flint and Dearborn campuses. The move is part of the University’s plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040, and the installation process is expected to be completed in three years, starting in 2025.
University of Michigan Plans $70M Solar Installation
The University of Michigan has unveiled plans to spend $70 million on the installation of solar arrays across all three campuses and surrounding areas. The decision, taken at the University’s Board of Regents’ meeting in May, involves working with Houston-based firm Radial Power. The project will bring 20 megawatts of power to the Ann Arbor campus, and five megawatts shared between the Flint and Dearborn campuses.
Shana Weber, the associate vice president for campus sustainability, revealed in an interview that Radial Power was chosen due to their willingness to partner with faculty and students. According to Weber, the project will also serve as an educational tool for the campus community, encouraging faculty and students to learn from the solar systems.
The installation is expected to take three years and will commence with the finalization of site locations and other preparatory measures. Weber noted that some installation sites will be prioritized, and the process will commence in 2025 or earlier if possible.
Besides benefiting the University, the project will extend to the surrounding communities. Weber indicated that part of the installation will happen off-campus, as the University is committed to transitioning to renewable energy and ensuring the broader community benefits as well.
According to University Regent Paul Brown, this installation is a significant stride towards the University’s goal of achieving complete carbon neutrality by 2040. He emphasized that solar and geothermal energies are crucial in achieving this goal, alongside other creative strategies.
LSA junior Hailey Kempf, president of the professional environmental fraternity Epsilon Eta, emphasized the importance of carbon neutrality in combating climate change. Brown echoed these sentiments, noting the University’s commitment to setting an example in finding solutions for climate change nationally and internationally.
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