MUSKEGON HEIGHTS, Mich. — The City of Muskegon Heights is installing solar energy equipment that will generate nearly half of the government’s electricity.
Muskegon-based Chart House Energy will install systems on five city-owned properties, which will create high-wage construction jobs during the project. The company will train and employ local people who are underemployed or unemployed.
Once the project is finished, the company will help those workers find permanent jobs.
Solar panels will be installed on the roofs of Muskegon Heights City Hall and Department of Public Works, and grounded solar arrays will be built at the water filtration plant and pumping station. The system will create solar energy equivalent to about 47% of the City of Muskegon Heights’ electric consumption.
Muskegon Heights will save about $100,000 every year in energy costs.
“We are setting our sights on the New Heights – this means clean energy, clean streets, new parks and recreation, new festivals, new residential construction, new industry and commerce, and a safe and secure community.” Muskegon Heights City Manager Troy Bell said in a release.
Construction is scheduled to begin in mid-March and finish by the end of June.
