In a major step forward for renewable energy in Michigan, Hecate Energy has chosen Bechtel to lead the design and construction of Sunfish Solar 2. This 360MW DC solar facility marks the first phase of Hecate’s 1-gigawatt solar development in Calhoun County. Set to be one of the largest solar installations in the state, Sunfish Solar 2 will play a pivotal role in Michigan’s plan to generate 50% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030.
Construction is expected to begin later this year, with the project bringing a significant economic boost to the region. The solar farm will generate enough clean energy to power approximately 183,500 Michigan homes and is expected to offset nearly 1.5 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually—equivalent to removing more than 300,000 passenger vehicles from the road each year. In total, it will cover 1,300 acres of land and feature 620,000 bifacial solar panels, allowing both sides of the panels to absorb sunlight, boosting energy efficiency.
“We are delighted to partner with Bechtel on Sunfish Solar 2. Bechtel brings more than 80-years of experience in delivering renewable energy projects and shares our commitment to a cleaner, greener future and long-term benefits for electricity consumers,” said Fazli Qadir, Hecate Energy Chief Technology Officer and Executive Vice President of Engineering, Procurement, and Construction.
Bechtel also plans to implement its award-winning digital delivery methods, using autonomous technologies to streamline the design, construction, and commissioning processes. Consumers Energy, the power provider collaborating with Hecate Energy, has estimated the total installed capital cost for Sunfish Solar 2 to be $453 million. This substantial investment reflects the growing demand for renewable energy solutions across the U.S., with the solar sector expanding by 79% in early 2024 alone. The project also highlights Michigan’s ongoing commitment to transitioning away from fossil fuels and mitigating the effects of climate change.
The project is scheduled for completion in 2026 and, at its peak, will create over 350 construction jobs, supporting workforce development and the local economy. As solar energy continues to gain momentum, the Sunfish development showcases what large-scale renewable projects can achieve in reducing carbon footprints and moving toward a sustainable future.
