GRAND HAVEN, MICH., June 4, 2026 – The Grand Haven Board of Light & Power (BLP) is inviting customers to participate in a new, local Community Solar Garden. All residential, commercial, and industrial electric customers served by the BLP in the City of Grand Haven, City of Ferrysburg, and Townships of Grand Haven, Spring Lake and Robinson can participate in the program.
The BLP is planning to construct a 300,000-watt solar array on vacant property adjacent to the power line corridor between Comstock St. and Hayes St near 168th Ave. The City of Grand Haven is providing an easement to support development of the community-based renewable energy project.
To participate in the voluntary program, customers can purchase shares of the solar array in 300-watt increments for $570.00 per share. The BLP will credit the renewable energy generated from the Community Solar Garden to participants on their monthly electric bills.
“For years, our community has expressed interest in having a local solar project,” said Rob Shelley, BLP general manager. “Finding suitable land has always been the biggest challenge. Through a creative partnership with the city council, we were able to identify a solution that makes this project possible. This program now gives customers who may not be able to install solar panels at their homes or businesses an opportunity to participate in local renewable energy.”
“The BLP has already invested in multiple large-scale renewable energy solar, wind, and landfill gas projects across Michigan which now make up approximately 30% of our annual energy purchases,” said Board Chairman Mike Westbrook. “While the new community solar garden will not replace those investments, it provides customers with a direct opportunity to support a renewable energy project located within their own community. This innovative renewable energy project is just another example of how our locally owned BLP brings our communities together.”
BLP will accept applications through December 15, 2026. The project requires subscriptions to reach at least 33% of total capacity before starting construction. Once subscriptions reach 33% or more, BLP will move forward with construction of the Community Solar Garden with completion by the end of 2027. If the project does not receive sufficient public interest by December 15, 2026, then BLP will not move forward with construction, and applicants will receive a full refund of their application fees.
More information about the community solar project is available at: www.ghblp.org/sustainability/community-solar
About the BLP
The Board of Light and Power provides reliable, affordable, and sustainable power for over 15,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the City of Grand Haven, City of Ferrysburg, Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Robinson Townships.
