Commission accepts state grant for solar feasibility assessments at county facilities

The Wayne County Commission voted to accept a community energy management grant from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) to fund solar feasibility assessments at county‑owned and operated facilities.

Aaron Kelly, director of Sustainability and Innovation, and Economic Development staff said the grant will pay for studies to determine which county facilities could support solar installations and what the likely return on investment might be. "With this grant, we intend to support the county in completing solar feasibility assessments of facilities that the county owns and operates," Kelly said.

Why it matters: County staff said Wayne County currently does not use solar on its own facilities and that the assessments will provide data on annual energy spend, potential savings and the financial case for future solar investments.

Questions and vote

Commissioner Baker McCormick asked whether the county currently operates any solar panels; staff replied that it does not and characterized the assessments as a first step to quantify possible investment and payback. The motion to accept the grant was made by Commissioner Baker McCormick and supported by Commissioner Palomir; commissioners approved the acceptance on a voice vote.

Ending

Staff said the feasibility assessments will inform any future decisions about solar installations and that the grant acceptance authorizes the county to move forward with the studies.