Consumers Energy creates Michigan’s first ever rooftop solar, battery storage system

In Grand Rapids, Mich., residents of the west side will now have access to the state’s first-ever rooftop solar array and battery storage system, consisting of nearly 1,800 panels and a 500-kilowatt battery created by Consumers Energy.

The new energy distribution setup was established atop the Bridge Street Market and adjoining buildings in a 13-block district, marking a unique entry into state and national history. It was a joint project between Consumers Energy and Rockford Construction, able to power up to 100 homes. Consumers will subsequently be studying the system’s performance, together with that of a 1-megawatt battery installed at a substation in Western Michigan University’s Kalamazoo, Michigan campus last fall.

Reviews of their performance will help them determine the best use and integration practices for the future of the grid.

“Today, there is very little storage on the grid, so electricity is generated just moments before you use it,” Garrick Rochow, Consumers Energy’s senior vice president of operations, said. “With large batteries, we will make our grid more efficient, effective and sustainable. It’s a critical part of Michigan’s energy future, and it’s happening here at Circuit West.”

Corporate and city leaders, as well as U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), attended the opening ceremony.

“With this first-of-its-kind solar, battery storage system, West Michigan is leading the way to our clean energy future,” Stabenow said. “Projects like Circuit West will ensure more families and businesses have greener and more reliable energy.”