Customer Solar Projects Selected For Consumers Energy Program; Next Phase Open To New Residential Construction

JACKSON, Mich., Aug. 29, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Solar projects planned by 16 residential customers have been selected to move forward as part of Consumers Energy's ongoing implementation of Michigan's energy reform law. 

The random-selection process for these qualified applicants is part of the utility's Experimental Advanced Renewable Program (EARP).  The program provides for the long-term purchase of renewable energy generated by solar energy systems owned by the utility's electric customers. 

Residential customer projects in 13 Lower Peninsula counties were selected during this phase of the program. The projects will provide 118.6 kilowatts of electric capacity.

A new phase of the program also is starting. Consumers Energy is accepting applications from developers that integrate solar energy systems into new home construction.  Applications for this phase will be due no later than Sept. 13. Go to www.consumersenergy.com/EARP.

Consumers Energy will be hosting a public information session about the EARP on Oct. 9. This event is open to the public, and electric customers, renewable energy installers and anyone interested in customer-installed solar generating systems is encouraged to attend.

The session will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Three Fires Room at Soaring Eagle Conference Center, 6800 Soaring Eagle Blvd., Mount Pleasant. To RSVP for this event or for more information about the program, visit www.consumersenergy.com/EARP.

The meeting will coincide with the opening of the next two phases of the program Oct. 1, for residential and non-residential customers. All application must be received by 5 p.m. Nov. 6.

Consumers Energy's Experimental Advanced Renewable Program is enabled by Michigan's 2008 energy reform law. The program currently has contracts in place to purchase renewable energy from more than 200 customer-owned solar generators. 

Consumers Energy, Michigan's largest utility, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and electricity to 6.6 million of the state's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties. 

For more information about Consumers Energy, visit us at www.consumersenergy.com or join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/consumersenergymichigan.

SOURCE Consumers Energy