Executive Board:2/13/2024 (Energy Futures Taskforce – Handout, 2/13/2024)

The Leelanau County Energy Futures Taskforce has outlined a mission to enhance energy efficiency and promote renewable energy within Leelanau County, as approved by the Board of Commissioners on September 19, 2023. The primary project under this initiative is the proposed solar installation at the Leelanau County Government Center. This project aims to reduce county electric bills and demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of solar energy in Michigan. The solar project is set to be fully funded by a grant from the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC), with an estimated total cost ranging from $1 million to $1.5 million.

The proposed solar project at the Leelanau County Government Center will feature a 400 kW solar installation, expected to supply approximately 30% of the center’s energy needs. The project includes ground-mounted solar panels at the Courts and Administration Building, as well as parking-covered solar panels at the Law Enforcement Building. The financial benefits of this initiative are significant, with projected annual savings of $40,000 for the county, amounting to $1 million to $1.4 million over a 25 to 35-year period. The project’s environmental impact is equally notable, as it is expected to prevent the burning of over 10 million pounds of coal, save more than 20,000 barrels of oil, and contribute to the equivalent of planting over 8,000 acres of forest annually.

Collaborative efforts are central to the success of this project, with key partners including Cherryland Electric Cooperative, MSU Extension Office, Leelanau Conservation District, and Leelanau Energy. These partnerships underscore the community’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions. The project not only aligns with the taskforce’s mission to foster energy efficiency and renewable energy but also serves as a model for other counties in Michigan looking to reduce their environmental footprint and operational costs through solar energy.