National Grid Renewables announced its 40-MW MiSolar portfolio recently began operation. It includes two Michigan solar projects, Bingham Solar and Temperance Solar, located in Clinton and Monroe counties, respectively. Together with its affiliated entities, National Grid Renewables owns and operates both solar projects, and each project has a PPA with Consumers Energy.
National Grid Renewables contracted with Michigan-based EPC contractor J. Ranck Electric to construct the projects, and during peak construction MiSolar employed approximately 160 workers, 95% of which were recruited from communities within 100 miles of each site. Additional MiSolar job and economic benefits resulted from using Michigan-based subcontractors, including The Hydaker-Wheatlake Company, based out of Reed City, Michigan.
“As a Michigan-based company, The Hydaker-Wheatlake Company was proud to help construct the MiSolar Portfolio,” said Neil Wallerstrom, general foreman for The Hydaker-Wheatlake Company. “Solar projects like the MiSolar Portfolio provide economic benefits for Michigan residents at the local and state level. Throughout the construction process of both project substations, we were able to hire Michigan residents and were pleased to support local hardware stores, hotels and restaurants.”
Three full-time operations and maintenance staff work at the MiSolar project sites. During the first 20 years of operation, MiSolar is projected to further benefit the community through the creation of approximately $6 million in new tax revenue, based on current Michigan law.
“Our company has a long history in Michigan, and we are proud to support the state and local economies through the creation of new tax revenue and jobs that result from these projects,” said David Reamer, head of development for U.S. Onshore Renewables for National Grid Renewables. “Thank you to the residents of Clinton and Monroe Counties for welcoming us into your communities.”
