- Consumers Energy and Hecate Energy have begun preliminary work on the 360 MW Sunfish Solar 2 project in Lee Township, Michigan. The project is set to be completed by Q2 2026.
- The project will power 69,000 homes and support Michigan’s goal of sourcing 50% of energy from renewables by 2030.
- Over 350 unionised jobs will be created, contributing $225 million to the local economy. The focus will be on hiring from West-Central Michigan.
Consumers Energy and Hecate Energy have officially started preliminary site work for the 360 MW Sunfish Solar 2 project in Lee Township, Calhoun County, Michigan. The project, scheduled for completion by the second quarter of 2026, will provide enough renewable power to meet the needs of approximately 69,000 homes across the state.
This project represents a significant step forward in Consumers Energy’s commitment to expanding clean energy sources. The utility aims to generate 8,000 MW of solar energy by 2040, and Sunfish Solar 2 will play a crucial role in achieving this target. The project aligns with Michigan’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and build a more sustainable energy infrastructure.
Once operational, Sunfish Solar 2 will supply energy mainly to customers enrolled in Consumers Energy’s voluntary Renewable Energy Program. This program allows commercial and residential customers to participate in Michigan’s clean energy transition by sourcing their energy from renewable resources. The project will help meet the state’s rising demand for green energy.
The Sunfish Solar 2 project will also benefit the local community significantly economically. Over 350 unionised jobs will be created during construction, offering valuable employment opportunities in the region. The project will generate $225 million in economic activity, with $50 million in labour income for the local workforce. Bechtel, the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor managing the development, will prioritise hiring from West-Central Michigan to ensure that the community directly benefits from the project.
The development of Sunfish Solar 2 supports Michigan’s efforts to meet its renewable energy goals. The state has set a target of sourcing 50% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030, and Sunfish Solar 2 contributes to this objective. The project will bolster Michigan’s clean energy grid, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing energy resilience in the face of climate challenges.
Consumers Energy remains dedicated to renewable energy development as a central part of its mission to provide reliable, clean, and affordable energy to Michigan’s residents and businesses. The utility focuses on creating a sustainable energy future that addresses current energy needs while tackling environmental challenges. Sunfish Solar 2 plays a key role in this strategy, positioning Consumers Energy as a leader in the clean energy transition.
Once finished, Sunfish Solar 2 will deliver significant solar power to Michigan’s grid, helping the state reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. The project will also help the state cut its carbon footprint and improve public health while diversifying energy sources and increasing energy independence.
Consumers Energy and Hecate Energy will continue collaborating with local stakeholders and the community as the project progresses to ensure Sunfish Solar 2’s benefits reach everyone. With its focus on job creation, local recruitment, and environmental sustainability, Sunfish Solar 2 will set a standard for future renewable energy projects in Michigan and nationwide.