The University of Michigan has activated the first two solar arrays on its North Campus as part of its renewable energy initiative called "Maize Rays." The installations include rooftop panels and a solar carport at the North Campus Facilities Services Building. According to Audacy, the arrays are expected to generate enough electricity to power about 100 homes.
The University of Michigan announced that the new solar arrays are part of a larger plan to increase solar capacity to 25 megawatts across all campuses. Officials said this would provide enough power for about 3,000 homes each year. The initiative is designed to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, improve energy resilience, and support the university’s goal of carbon neutrality.
"These first solar installations are a clear example of how we're putting our carbon neutrality commitment into action," said Geoff Chatas, executive vice president and chief financial officer at the University of Michigan, in an interview with Audacy. The university reported that the project involves the Office of Campus Sustainability, Facilities & Operations, Radial Power, and student groups including Students for Clean Energy, and that it will also serve as an educational tool by providing access to real-time data. Future solar installations are planned in partnership with the city of Ann Arbor.
