News Summary
Grand Rapids is set to begin a significant solar energy project aimed at powering municipal buildings, traffic signals, and streetlights throughout the city. The two-megawatt solar array will be constructed at the former Butterworth Landfill, expected to be operational by 2027. The city secured a $3 million grant for the project and aims to have circuit lines operational by mid-2026, enhancing the city’s sustainability efforts and reducing reliance on conventional energy sources.
Grand Rapids is set to launch a substantial solar energy initiative aimed at powering all municipal buildings, traffic signals, and streetlights throughout the city. The project, which will involve the construction of a two-megawatt solar array, is expected to be operational by the end of 2027. This solar infrastructure will be located at the former Butterworth Landfill, approximately 10 minutes southwest of downtown Grand Rapids.
Construction activities for the solar power project are slated to begin in 2025. Once completed, the solar array is projected to generate enough electricity to supply power during daylight hours to the city’s 100 facilities, 18,000 streetlights, and traffic signals. However, it is important to note that the array will not include battery storage capabilities. Consequently, night-time electricity will continue to be sourced from Consumers Energy until a feasible battery solution for the solar array is developed.
The Grand Rapids City Commission has secured a $3 million grant from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to fund this ambitious project. The grant will facilitate the construction of essential circuit lines that will connect the solar array to the city’s primary power grid. Furthermore, the project will require the reconstruction of Wealthy Street, which runs adjacent to the landfill site.
City officials have set a target to have the circuit line operational by June 2026, ensuring eligibility for certain tax credits. Interest in the project has been significant, as design proposals from potential developers attracted 10 qualified respondents.
The former Butterworth Landfill has a history that dates back to its operation as an open dump and sanitary landfill until its closure in 1973 due to contamination issues. In 1986, the site was placed on the U.S. Superfund National Priorities List, addressing environmental concerns regarding the site.
In addition to the solar array project, city officials are also exploring options for further solar initiatives on the landfill site. This includes potential community solar projects for local residents and businesses. Future ideas may include installing solar arrays over existing parking lots or additional community solar initiatives managed by Consumers Energy.
As Grand Rapids moves forward with its renewable energy goals, this project stands as part of a broader effort to enhance sustainability within the city. By transforming a previously contaminated site into a source of renewable energy, Grand Rapids is not only addressing the city’s energy needs but also contributing towards a greener future.
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Additional Resources
- MLive: Solar Array at Former Landfill
- Wikipedia: Solar Energy
- Fox17: Student-Designed Solar Array
- Google Search: Solar Array Grand Rapids
- Grand Haven Tribune: Balcony Solar Panels
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Renewable Energy
- Crain’s Grand Rapids: Floating Solar Energy Project
- Google News: Grand Rapids Solar Energy
- WZZM13: Grand Haven Renewable Energy Portfolio
- Google Scholar: Solar Energy Initiatives
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
