Kokosing Solar, in collaboration with local leaders and Consumers Energy representatives, has commenced the construction of the Blackman Solar Gardens in Blackman Township, Michigan. This new 2.5 megawatt (MW) community solar facility aims to supply power to approximately 2,500 homes and businesses by the end of 2025.
The groundbreaking ceremony marks Consumers Energy's fourth community solar facility under its Solar Gardens program. The site will cover 30 acres and include nearly 5,000 solar panels, providing residents an opportunity to engage in renewable energy without needing personal installations.
David Hicks, Vice President of Clean Energy Development at Consumers Energy, stated, “We want to continue working with the community as we build Blackman Solar. And we hope to find more opportunities in the future. We want to collaborate with more local leaders interested in developments just like Blackman Solar.”
Kokosing Solar is responsible for all phases of construction including sitework and installation processes. Brady Phillips from Kokosing Industrial’s Private Industrial Group expressed enthusiasm for participating in this project: “We’re honored to be part of this forward-looking project for Jackson County and the state of Michigan.” He highlighted Kokosing’s long-standing experience since 1951 and their commitment to quality over their 25 years in solar projects.
Phillips also mentioned that Kokosing Solar focuses on employing skilled union labor locally, with plans to hire about 20 tradespeople during peak construction times. “These are good-paying, future-focused jobs that stay right here in the community,” he noted.
The construction process is set to proceed throughout the year with expectations for renewable electricity generation by December 2025. Both Kokosing Solar and Consumers Energy aim for this initiative to contribute significantly towards a sustainable energy future for Michigan.