General Motors (GM) has announced its largest clean-energy project to date, involving two utility-scale solar generation facilities in Michigan. Developed by NorthStar Clean Energy, the projects are located in Branch County and St. Clair County, where the Lake Iris solar project will be built. GM will serve as the primary customer through a virtual power purchase agreement.
The Michigan solar projects are part of GM’s strategy to support the electricity requirements of its operations and improve predictability in energy costs. The company cited growing demand associated with artificial intelligence, vehicle electrification and manufacturing as factors increasing the importance of renewable energy investments.
Renewable Energy to Support Manufacturing Operations
GM plans to apply the renewable energy credits generated by the facilities towards emissions associated with electricity purchased for its manufacturing operations. The arrangement forms part of the company’s wider renewable electricity commitments.
In 2025, GM secured enough renewable energy to match 100% of its electricity use across all its US facilities. The company said it was the first US automaker to achieve this milestone.
GM has also reduced its operational emissions, covering Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions, by 52% since 2018. It said securing long-term, low-cost renewable energy helps improve price predictability and reduce exposure to fuel-market volatility, supporting planning for manufacturing and product investments.
Michigan Solar Developments Support Local Communities
The Branch County and Lake Iris projects together created more than 550 full-time local construction jobs during their development. Across the United States, GM’s renewable energy projects have generated nearly $2 billion in economic impact and support approximately 1,500 construction jobs annually in the communities where the company operates.
The Branch project also helped Bethel Township receive a $1 million Renewables Ready Communities Award. The funding supports local priorities, including the expansion of the township hall and road improvements.
At the Lake Iris facility, plans include establishing pollinator habitat across the solar project grounds. Native plantings are expected to help reduce long-term maintenance requirements while supporting solar-panel efficiency and local biodiversity. GM is supporting the initiative, which also provides an opportunity to work with researchers studying pollinator habitat and regional value creation.
GM Expands Its Renewable Energy Investments
GM said the two Michigan solar projects will add renewable generation to the state’s electricity grid while supporting the company’s renewable energy goals. The developments form part of its broader approach to managing energy costs, supporting manufacturing operations and contributing to economic activity in the communities where it operates.
The company said its renewable energy investments are intended to strengthen its business operations while supporting local employment and community priorities.