Hart Solar Project Advances Michigan's Clean Energy Future

ANN ARBOR, Mich., Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- NorthStar Clean Energy proudly announces the completion of its 120-megawatt Hart Solar Project, a utility-scale renewable energy facility in Oceana County. This solar project provides clean electricity to a diverse group of Michigan energy customers through long-term purchase agreements with Executive Energy Services and Michigan Public Power Agency (MPPA). The project is expected to generate more than 200 gigawatt hours of electricity annually, enough to power more than 21,000 homes and avoid an estimated 96,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year, supporting Michigan's transition to a cleaner energy future. On October 8, NorthStar Clean Energy will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony bringing together project partners, customers, local officials, community leaders and stakeholders to celebrate the project's completion and recognize the collaboration that made Hart Solar possible.

Beyond generating clean energy, the Hart Solar Project is helping strengthen Michigan communities through significant economic investment and local partnerships. The project created more than 300 construction jobs and made significant contributions to Michigan's economy during development and construction, while also providing a long-term source of tax revenue to support local services and infrastructure. As a result of the project, Hart Township also received roughly $600,000 via EGLE's Renewables Ready Communities Award Program to fund community improvements that will benefit residents for years to come. Additionally, the CMS Energy Foundation granted a local food bank, Lakeshore Food Club, $100,000 to further support community well-being and access to essential resources.

"Hart Solar is an important investment in Michigan's energy future and demonstrates how strong partnerships can help deliver clean energy solutions to communities across our state," said Brian Hartmann, President and CEO of NorthStar Clean Energy. "By working with organizations like Executive Energy Services and MPPA, we're helping meet customer energy goals while strengthening Michigan's energy infrastructure with additional renewable generation. We're proud to celebrate the completion of this project and the positive impact it will have on the community for years to come."

For customers, Hart Solar provides a reliable source of renewable energy while helping manage long-term energy costs and support sustainability objectives.

"Oakland County and small businesses across Michigan are expected to save on electric supply charges through the Hart Solar Project," said Robert Bernardi of Executive Energy Services. Through a partnership with NorthStar Clean Energy, Oakland Schools and 45 other public school districts statewide are projected to save approximately $25 million over a 10-year agreement. These savings will allow schools to redirect funds toward students, staff, and core educational priorities while advancing their clean energy goals."

"Hart Solar reflects MPPA's long-term commitment to helping our Members secure reliable, cost-effective, carbon-free power supply resources that strengthen and diversify their power supply portfolios," said Patrick Bowland, CEO & General Manager at MPPA. "Through joint action, public power communities of all sizes can share in the economies of scale needed to make utility-scale renewable projects like Hart Solar a practical, long-term resource for the customers and communities they serve."

NorthStar Clean Energy's commitment is to deliver renewable energy solutions that create lasting value for customers, communities, and the environment. Through partnerships with organizations like Executive Energy Services and MPPA, the project provides clean power, supports local economic growth, and advances Michigan's transition to a more sustainable energy future.

About NorthStar Clean Energy
NorthStar Clean Energy, founded in 1987, provides customized energy solutions that help customers achieve their business and sustainability objectives. The company operates a diverse portfolio of energy assets to meet growing demand for reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy.

SOURCE NorthStar Clean Energy