Michigan’s renewable energy landscape has expanded significantly with the commissioning of the Sauk Solar park, the newest and largest solar facility from DTE Energy. Now operational in Branch County as of October 25, 2024, the 150-megawatt plant utilizes nearly 347,000 solar panels to generate enough clean electricity to power approximately 40,000 homes.
The Sauk Solar park represents a major milestone in the company’s CleanVision MIGreenPower program, being the first of six new solar projects to come online. This voluntary renewable energy program allows nearly 100,000 residential and 1,900 business customers to attribute more of their energy use to Michigan-made wind and solar projects. At more than three times the size of DTE’s next-largest solar facility in Lapeer, this project is a cornerstone of the utility’s broader clean energy strategy.
“As our largest solar park yet, Sauk Solar is a major accomplishment for DTE and all the teams that made it happen – but it’s also the first in a series of new solar developments that will have a major impact on the state of Michigan as a whole,” stated Matt Paul, president and chief operating officer of DTE Electric. He emphasized the project’s role in the company’s plan to phase out coal by 2032 and achieve state-mandated renewable energy targets.
Beyond its environmental benefits, the project has delivered significant local economic advantages. The construction phase created over 350 jobs, contributing to the 20,000 jobs DTE’s renewable energy investment has supported across Michigan since 2009. Furthermore, the Sauk Solar park is projected to generate millions in tax revenue for Branch County over its operational lifetime, funding essential community services like schools, roads, and first responders.
“DTE has been a great partner. It’s been exciting to collaborate with DTE on this knowing we’re not only creating a cleaner world for our kids and grandkids but also bringing real, lasting change to our local economy,” said Bud Norman, Branch County administrator and controller.
The new facility is a critical component of DTE’s goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions and aligns with Michigan’s target of sourcing 60% of its energy from renewables by 2035. With plans to add over 2,400 megawatts of new wind and solar capacity in the next decade, DTE is on track to power the equivalent of 5.5 million homes with clean energy by 2042.
Sources for DTE Energy Commissions Sauk Solar Plant with 347,000 Panels
- DTE Energy begins operating its largest solar park, Sauk Solar
- Sauk Solar Park Project – Barton Malow
- DTE Energy begins operating its largest solar park, Sauk
- DTE Energy starts up 150MW Sauk Solar park in Michigan
- DTE Energy powers 150MW solar PV plant in Michigan, US