- change ups Projects shine light on solar power in Michigan
LANSING — Despite its reputation for gray skies, clouds and
rough winters, Michigan may begin to rely more heavily on solar
power to meet its electricity demands, some energy experts say.
“Our focus is to continue to grow the solar industry in terms of
implementation and funding,” said Amy Butler, director for the
Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth’s Bureau of
Energy Systems. Solar is part of an alternative energy menu,
along with biomass, wind, geothermal and hydroelectric. What are
the advantages of solar energy to the state? Mark Roberts,
economics professor at Michigan Technological University, said,
“One of the most important benefits is that solar energy reduces
the amount of pollution.” Other benefits include the reliability
of solar panels, silent operation of solar cells and the fact
that users are not required to connect their system to the power
grid, Roberts added. He said solar power users will have the
option of selling su