Photo: Roncelli
Detroit-based energy company DTE Energy has completed construction of a 100-megawatt (MW) solar farm near Coldwater, Michigan, which will help Ford power its home state’s factories with cleaner electricity.
Ford is financing the $194 million Cold Creek solar farm through its enrollment in DTE’s voluntary renewable energy program, CleanVision MIGreenPower. Cold Creek generates enough power for the equivalent of approximately 23,000 to 25,000 homes in Michigan.
Construction began in April 2025. Cold Creek is the first of several DTE projects being built to support Ford’s renewable electricity commitment in Michigan.
Ford agreed in 2022 to purchase up to 650 MW of renewable energy through MIGreenPower. The program allows households and businesses to match their electricity use with renewable energy generated in Michigan, while helping finance new wind and solar projects.
For Ford, the goal is to assemble every vehicle it makes in Michigan with the equivalent of 100% carbon-free electricity by the end of 2027, according to DTE’s latest announcement.
That deadline has been moved: When Ford and DTE announced the deal in August 2022, they set a target for 2025. The new announcement doesn’t explain the change.
Installing solar energy also brings benefits beyond Ford’s factories. DTE says projects supported by MIGreenPower create local jobs and generate tax revenue for their host communities, but the utility has not provided details.
When the broader deal with Ford was announced, DTE estimated that construction of the solar panels would create 250 temporary jobs and 10 permanent positions. He said host communities could use the additional tax revenue for roads, schools, libraries and first responders. Those estimates covered the broader construction, rather than just Cold Creek.
Ford’s purchase of electricity in Michigan is part of a broader effort to use 100% carbon-free electricity in its global manufacturing facilities by 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality in its vehicles, manufacturing and supply chain no later than 2050.
Read more: California gives the green light to solar installation for balconies
If you have ever considered going solar, make it easy by finding a trustworthy and reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive prices by asking energywise. They have hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high-quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use and you won’t receive sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them.
Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll have access to unbiased energy advisors to help you every step of the way. Start here.
FTC: We use automatic affiliate links that generate income. Further.
