Michigan is located in the Midwestern region of the United States. Also known as the Great Lake State, Michigan has more than 11,000 in-shore lakes which are a remarkable natural resource. However, the colossal water bodies are not the only natural resource Michigan is blessed with. It also receives plenty of sunlight throughout the year. Michigan receives an average of 4 peak sun hours throughout the year. This number goes up to 6 peak hours during summers.
In recent years, Michigan has experienced a boom in the proliferation of solar energy in the state. This boom can be attributed to falling solar prices, the enhanced conversion efficiency of solar panels due to technological advancements, the introduction of solar-friendly legislation, multiple state-approved financial incentives, etc. The cost of solar panel installation in Michigan lies in the range of $2.64 to $3.56.
Multiple big businesses in Michigan have opted for solar energy. Some notable mentions include the installation of a 977.6 kW rooftop array solar system in IKEA. Ford Motor Company and DTE Energy have built a 1.04 MW solar carport structure at Ford’s Headquarters located in Dearborn, Michigan.
Multiple community solar projects are also operational in Michigan. The most prominent is the 3MW solar farm at Grand Valley State University. It is the largest solar farm in Michigan.
Solar Friendly Regulation and Financial Incentives in Michigan
Renewable Portfolio Standard
Michigan adopted a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RSP) in 2008 according to which alternate energy resources should contribute 10% to the state’s energy mix.
A new energy policy was adopted in 2016 according to which the share of renewable energy sources in the state’s energy mix should increase to 12.5% in 2019 and by 15% in 2021. Power suppliers are encouraged to source at least 35% of the State’s electric requirements through renewable energy by 2025.
Federal Investment Tax Credit
The Federal Investment Tax Credit plays an important role in reducing the capital cost of solar systems substantially. According to this tax, up to 26% of the total cost of the solar system is reimbursed when the user files his federal tax credit.
By 2023, this incentive will be eliminated for residential solar systems. However, commercial solar energy system owners can still benefit up to 10% tax reimbursement after 2023 as well.
Following statistics reveal the state of solar energy in Michigan:
- Solar Installed (MW): 758.8
- National Ranking: 26th (13th in 2021)
- Percentage of State’s Electricity from Solar: 0.58%
- Solar Jobs: 3,379
- Solar Companies in State: 178 (60 Manufacturers, 68 Installers/Developers, 50 Others)
- Total Solar Investment in State: 1 billion
- Prices have fallen 4% over the last 5 years
- Growth Projection and Ranking: 2,388 MW over the next 5 years (ranks 14th)
- Number Of Installations: 14,395
Need for Solar Panel Recycling Solutions in Michigan
Michigan is making multiple efforts to tap its true potential for solar generation. Ambitious targets and solar-friendly legislation have put Michigan on a path of achieving energy sufficiency through the use of solar energy.
However, the rapid proliferation of photovoltaic technology also raises the alarming question about the decommissioning and disposal of end-of-life solar panels. Most experts agree that recycling old solar panels is the most cost-effective and eco-friendly waste disposal option for solar waste.
If you are looking for decommissioning of solar systems or large-scale solar panel recycling solutions in Michigan, contact We Recycle Solar. We provide recycling solutions for solar panels, batteries, and other equipment. Our processes are safe, efficient, and compliant with all federal and state laws.
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Unless otherwise noted, all data from SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight