GHG Emissions, Utilities, Solar  -  August 22, 2019

Detroit Zoo to power up with 100% RE

The Detroit Zoo will use only Michigan-made renewable energy by late 2020. The energy, purchased through DTE Energy's MIGreenPower program via three new wind parks coming online next year, will reduce carbon dioxide by 7,425 metric tons, equal to the carbon sequestered by 8,740 acres of U.S. forests annually.

“Our commitment to sustainability is integrated into everything we do, from our environmentally responsible operations to our community-wide education programs,” said Ron Kagan, executive director and CEO of the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS), in a statement. “Joining MIGreenPower is a major step forward for us, as our power needs significantly exceed what we can produce on-site. This program helps reduce our carbon footprint while also supporting local, Michigan-made renewable energy.”

MIGreenPower is a voluntary renewable energy program that DTE offers its electric customers as a way to reduce their carbon footprint and support the development of additional wind and solar energy projects in Michigan. Electric customers who enroll in the program can opt for up to 100% of their energy needs to be fulfilled from local wind farms and solar parks.

DZS has completed energy efficiency upgrades in more than 50 of its buildings and installed LED lighting throughout the Zoo.  The Zoo has installed a zoo-based anaerobic digester that converts herbivore animal waste and food scraps into compost and energy, as well as a Smartflower, an all-in-one ground-mounted solar panel system that generates more than 4,000 KW of electricity annually. The Zoo also has installed permeable pavement that diverts rainwater from the stormwater drains, and uses solar/electric hybrid golf carts and bicycles for on-site transportation.

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