Jackson, Mich. (WKHM) — Consumers Energy is set to break ground next spring on a new 30-acre solar array in Blackman Township, right here in Jackson County. Known as Blackman Solar, this project will provide clean, renewable energy through the company’s Solar Gardens program, allowing customers to support solar power without owning solar panels.

The project, recently approved by Blackman Township, will feature nearly 5,000 solar panels and is expected to generate 2.5 megawatts of electricity — enough to power 2,500 homes by the end of 2025.

Blackman Solar will be Consumers Energy’s fourth community solar facility, joining others in Cadillac, Western Michigan University, and Grand Valley State. This is all part of the company’s Clean Energy Plan to be carbon-neutral by 2040.