About The Project
Current Efforts
Currently, Invenergy's efforts are largely focused on conducting all necessary studies to ensure we site our project facilities in the most appropriate and responsible locations and bringing the project to market by securing a long-term contract.
Economic Benefits
During the life of the project, the Chicory Solar Energy Center is projected to pay tens of millions of dollars in property taxes, lease payments to landowners, salaries to employees, and payments for local goods and services. This will result in a significant increase in economic activity for the local community and benefit local schools and county infrastructure from the increase in tax revenue.
Why Michigan?
Michigan has the potential to grow its solar industry in the near future. Over the next five years, an estimated 2,610 MW of solar is expected to come onto the grid. The cost of solar energy in Michigan has declined by 54% over the last 10 years, making it competitive with other energy sources while keeping electric rates affordable. Michigan's growing solar industry contributes greatly to the economy. In fact, the solar industry is valued at an estimated $1.4 billion.
Why Ionia County?
The Chicory Solar Energy Center is an unparalleled development opportunity for Ionia County, with millions invested in the local economy over the life of the project. We selected Keene Township for this project after intense and careful evaluation due to the:
- Open spaces with access to sunlight to produce solar energy
- Existing transmission lines limiting the need for new infrastructure
- Strong local interest and community partnerships
We take our commitment to Ionia County seriously, and look forward to expanding our relationship with the community, contributing the area's economic development, and to providing an additional supply of clean, homegrown energy in Michigan.
Environmental Benefits
The Chicory Solar Energy Center will produce up 100 megawatts of solar power, enough to power up to 20,000 homes with clean, renewable energy. Emissions-free energy sources mean cleaner air and water in Michigan. We work with state and federal agencies and other interested stakeholders to site, build, and operate our facilities responsibly, avoiding and minimizing impacts to wildlife.
As one of the first solar developers and operators in the U.S. with a dedicated vegetation management team, Invenergy develops project-specific vegetation plans for every solar site we build. Our vegetation plans ensure healthy topsoil and vegetative communities during the lifespan of the project.
Impact on County Roads
All County roads and infrastructure will be left in the same or better condition than they were prior to their use for the construction or on-going maintenance and repair of a solar energy project, and such repairs will be completed at no cost to Ionia County