Consumers Energy in Jackson has started construction on two renewable energy projects in partnership with Swisslane Farms, launching the state’s first AgriEnergy center.
The dairy farm will host a renewable natural gas (RNG) biodigester and a 140-megawatt solar array, generating enough energy to power 25,000 homes.
“This first-of-its-kind project provides a blueprint not only for other farms, but for the entire state, on how to integrate the clean energy transformation into existing businesses,” says David Hicks, vice president of clean energy development for Consumers Energy. “This project will produce meaningful solar output and significantly reduce emissions, while enabling a local institution to keep its doors open. This is truly a win for everyone.”
Through its partnership with Consumers Energy, Swisslane Farms is able to stay operational while also reducing emissions and adding significant energy output to the grid. In addition, the development is expected to supply tax revenue for the local community over the 30-plus-year lifetime of the project.
RNG technology captures methane released by decomposing organic wastes — like the manure from cows on dairy farms — and purifies it, making it safe for customer usage and better for the environment; in many cases RNG is considered carbon negative, as it captures and prevents more emissions than it emits.
Consumers Energy announced earlier this year the expansion of its RNG program, which aims to significantly reduce emissions for the company and the state’s farmers in the coming years.
“Renewable natural gas is a unique, cost-effective, and easily accessible way to reduce emissions while also providing the affordable natural gas we know our customers need,” says Holly Bowers, vice president of gas engineering and supply for Consumers Energy.
“Farmers like Oesch family are truly leading the way in this piece of Michigan’s clean energy transformation, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact the AgriEnergy center will have on their farm and the community.”
