It takes energy to make energy efficient cars. GM is on track to make some of the energy to produce the electric Chevrolet Volt using solar energy. The auto manufacturer and DTE Energy will install a solar array for its Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant.

The 516-kilowatt project, once installed, will generate electricity capable of charging 150 electric cars with extended-range capability every day for a year. That’s a total of 54,750 Chevy Volts.

GM allotted 264,000 square feet of solar panels for the project. It’s expected to be completed at the end of the summer. Once completed, GM’s Detroit-Hamtramck facility will save approximately $15,000 per year over the 20-year easement agreement.

Detroit-Hamtramck was designated the location for its available space. It was also selected because it’s the site where the Volt is manufacturered.

“This array will significantly decrease energy consumption by combining solar power with ongoing efficiency tactics such as lighting and equipment upgrades and automating equipment shut-down,” said Bob Ferguson, vice president of GM Public Policy. “Making sustainable choices is good for both the environment and our bottom line. Obviously cost savings is critical for GM, and the ability to save $15,000 per year while being environmental serves us well.”

DTE Energy, which provides electricity for the Detroit metro area, partnered with GM for the utility’s
SolarCurrents pilot. The pilot works with customers to install enough photovoltaic systems to be
installed on customer property or rooftops to over the next five years to generate 15 megawatts of
electricity throughout Southeast Michigan.

Ford recently completed an installation of a solar power generation system at its Michigan Assembly
Plant. The 500-kilowatt solar photovoltaic panel system is part of a collaboration
between Ford, DTE Energy, Xtreme Power, the city of Wayne and the state of Michigan. The company uses the facility to manufacture electric vehicles.