SOLAR POWER IN MICHIGAN
Thorn Lake Solar Project
AES’ Thorn Lake Solar project is a proposed solar farm that that will incorporate the most advanced solar energy technologies, is designed to minimize impact on the local environment, and will support Michigan’s goal to be carbon neutral by 2050.
20 MW planned solar capacity
Enough clean energy to power 5K homes annually
Located in Manchester Township, MI
Our clean energy commitment
AES’ Thorn Lake Solar Project is a proposed facility in Michigan. We are committed to responsible clean energy development that creates long-term value and positive impact for both the environment and local communities.
Economic and environmental benefits
We believe in being a good neighbor, ensuring responsible clean energy development that benefits both the environment and local communities without burdening existing infrastructure.
39.5K MWh
of carbon-free electricity generated each year, improving air quality and reducing CO2 emissions
$5 M
expected to be generated in tax revenue for local county, with schools receiving over 50% of the revenue
150 local jobs
to be created during construction + 4 full-time operation jobs
Project details
- Sited on 159 acres of privately-owned land
- Provides clean energy to Consumers Energy customers
- AES will be the long-term owner and operator of the facility
- At the end of the project's 35-year lifespan, a decommissioning plan allows for the land to return to agricultural use or other uses consistent with land-use policies at the time
Frequently asked questions
Learn more about the Thorn Lake Solar project by downloading the project FAQ here.
Clean energy benefits
local communities
Landowner income diversification, keeping land in the family
Local economic stimulus during construction
Affordable, reliable, locally produced clean energy
Improved air quality and reduced CO2 emissions
Social impact funding to area community organizations and non-profits
Non-permanent development and low-impact construction that ensures land can be sensitively restored to pre-project conditions at the end of the project’s life
Expected project timeline
2019 - 2022
Project Preparation
Development, Siting, Permitting
2023 - 2024
In Development
Construction
2024
Operational
Operations
Sustainability Resources
Sustainability best practices
At AES, safety is our highest priority, and we’ve focused on improving lives for more than 40 years. As a leading innovator in energy solutions, sustainability is core to both our strategy and our culture. We are committed to responsible land use and incorporating sustainable best practices into the entire project lifecycle, contributing to building a domestic circular renewables economy and reducing foreign dependence.
Community engagement
At AES, we understand that our success is only as strong as our partnerships with the communities where we operate. That’s why we partner with communities, customers, state agencies, higher education, elected officials, and other community stakeholders to determine how we can best work together to support sustainable social and economic development.
AES’ community engagement to date:
- Member of the Manchester and Brooklyn Irish Hills Chamber of Commerce
- Manchester Chicken Broil Sponsor two years in a row
- Donated to the Manchester Resource Community Food Bank
- Donated to the Brooklyn Manchester Trail feasibility study
- Hosted virtual open houses for the community in April 2021 and 2022
Meet your AES team
Contact us
We appreciate your interest in AES’ Thorn Lake Solar Project. Please contact us using the information below.