The City of Detroit has selected three sites for its Solar Neighborhoods initiative. Phase one will see 21 MW of solar being installed across the Gratiot Findlay, Van Dyke/Lynch, and State Fair neighborhoods.
The goal of the project, which is part of Detroit’s broader goal to meet its 33 MW of electricity demand through solar, is to build up solar capacity throughout the city. Lightstar Renewables will develop 10 MW of this portfolio.
According to SolarQuarter, the projects will be in mostly vacant neighborhoods and residents living within the footprint of the proposed facilities will be offered compensation equal to double the market value of their property (or a minimum of $90,000), along with moving expenses and relocation services. Additionally, renters will receive 18 months’ worth of rent and relocation services.
The initiative will also provide energy efficiency upgrades for surrounding homes, at an average of approximately $15,000 per home. Each acre contributed to the project will provide up to $25,000 in community benefits for energy-efficient upgrades.
The solar facilities will be operated under a 25 to 35-year agreement with the properties to be restored to their original green state upon the end of their useful life.
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