Burns & McDonnell breaks ground on a utility’s first large-scale solar project

Burns & McDonnell has broken ground on a new 297-MWDC solar facility for Consumers Energy, the utility’s first large-scale solar project. Scheduled for completion in 2026, the project represents a key part of Consumers Energy’s plan to add 8,000 MW of utility-scale solar power by 2040.

Burns & McDonnell is leading the project, using an integrated engineer-procure-construct (EPC) approach. The integrated EPC scope of the firm also includes site permitting, substation construction and the interconnection generation tie. The Burns & McDonnell team consists of the firm’s union self-perform construction arm, AZCO, working closely with local and other Michigan-based union labor.

“We are excited to work with local trades and union halls across Michigan to build out solar within the state,” said Drew Powers, construction project manager at Burns & McDonnell. “This project not only helps Consumers Energy advance in renewable energy but also supports the local economy.”

Located across 1,900 acres, the Muskegon Solar Energy Center is expected to generate enough energy to power approximately 40,000 homes annually.

“Consumers Energy has some of the most ambitious clean energy goals in the nation and advancing projects like this put us on a clear path to achieving them,” said David Hicks, VP of clean energy development for Consumers Energy. “Every project we bring online helps lower bills for our customers in the long term while also providing significant tax revenue for the community and better serving our planet. That’s a win for everyone, and we’re proud to be partnering with Burns & McDonnell to see this project come to fruition.”

Some key components of the project include First Solar Series 7 modules, Array Technology trackers, Siemens Gamesa inverters and Shoals Technologies Group and CAB Solar Cable Management tools.

“We are excited to help build out solar and drive the low cost of energy and renewable penetration into the great state of Michigan,” said Scott Newland, senior VP of infrastructure at Burns & McDonnell.

News item from Burns & McDonnell