Detroit took a significant leap toward a sustainable future as Mayor Mike Duggan, alongside DTE Energy and community leaders, broke ground on the city’s inaugural solar field under the Solar Neighborhoods Initiative. The site, located in the Van Dyke-Lynch neighborhood, was previously marred by blight and illegal activity, but is set to transform into a source of clean energy.
Mayor Duggan highlighted the dramatic change, stating, “There was nothing but illegal dumping and illegal activity going on here about a year ago, and now it’s going to power the city.” This solar field aims to produce 10 megawatts of renewable energy, with a clear objective of reducing energy costs and enhancing the quality of life in Detroit’s neighborhoods.
The initiative will significantly benefit local residents, as Duggan explained that the income generated from the electricity produced will be reinvested into improving homes in the surrounding area. “This is going to power huge numbers of city buildings, and the money that we’re making from the electricity, we’re using to improve the houses of the neighbors across the street that will be here for the long term,” he stated.
Community members, such as Haley Henley, who has resided in the area for 50 years, expressed optimism and appreciation for the changes taking place. Henley noted the security and community sense this initiative brings, saying, “It’s kind of sad when you live in a neighborhood and you get afraid to come out in it after dark. Thanks to the mayor for not forgetting about us.”
Residents like Dorothy Gladney are already seeing benefits, with improvements to their homes, including essential upgrades like carbon monoxide detectors. “The best thing that this solar panel did was brought us together,” Gladney remarked, highlighting the sense of community the project fosters.
The project is set to expand to four additional neighborhoods—Gratiot Findlay, State Fair, Greenfield Park, and Houston Whittier—ultimately covering 167 acres. This ambitious initiative is backed by tax credits stemming from the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.
“We said we’re only going to the neighborhoods where we’re wanted and as you can tell, we were very much wanted in this neighborhood,” Duggan added. The solar field is anticipated to be fully operational by mid-2026, and DTE Energy has committed to hosting more informational sessions throughout the construction phase, ensuring community engagement along the way.
This project represents not just a move towards renewable energy but a revitalization of neighborhoods and a commitment to supporting Detroit communities.