Words by Tess Becker
The city of Detroit used to be a hub for all things industrial, especially car production - once the lifeblood of the American midwest. But when those factories shut down and moved overseas many cities like Detroit, struggled to find their footing. Now, over half a decade later, Detroit is making a rebound in many ways, one of which is clean energy.
Soon, all Detroit’s municipal buildings are going to be powered by solar energy in an attempt to combat the climate crisis.
The city has determined that it’s going to need around 250 acres of solar panels in order to achieve 100% solar power for its municipal buildings. To make this happen, the city is allowing neighborhoods to apply to host solar farms in their areas where they will also reap the benefits of clean energy.
Solar field sites must be between 10 and 50 acres, and for every solar acre assembled, $25,000 in community benefits will be available for neighborhood projects such as park and recreation improvements, home repairs, and solar power for neighboring homes.
“If we decide a neighborhood’s proposal is a good fit, we will have conversations with the residents to determine what they want and need to help create more energy-efficient and climate resilient homes, or to improve their shared spaces,” Ray Solomon, director of Detroit’s Department of Neighborhoods, said.
Charity check-in
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The Women Invested to Save Earth Fund. This organization helps support underrepresented and underfunded Black, indigenous, and women of color-led organizations across the world. Find out more and support them here.
Collective Sun. They help nonprofits get outfitted with solar power capabilities. Check them out here.
Florida Bicycle Association. An organization that helps mobilize people and promote greener living and safer biking. Find out more.
