ANN ARBOR, Michigan, Feb. 2, 2023 — The Ann Arbor 2030 District, in collaboration with the City’s Office of Sustainability and Innovations (OSI), has launched a new program designed to help commercial properties in Ann Arbor and throughout the County access the benefits of clean, renewable energy.

The program will provide one-on-one assistance to screen properties for solar potential, help with designing and releasing Request for Proposals to qualified installers, support in reviewing proposal responses and financial benefits, and help reviewing post-installation energy bills.

 "Business and property owners need to know that financial investments made in their properties will result in real cost savings both in the short-term operations of the buildings, as well as significant long-term savings, especially as the cost of electricity continues to climb,” according to Julie Roth, Senior Energy Analyst at OSI.  “This program takes the uncertainty out of the process for businesses, helping them obtain bids, evaluate those bids, and work with vetted contractors.”

“With the Inflation Reduction Act restoring the 30% tax credit and providing for direct pay for non-profits and municipalities, this program will provide the support needed for commercial buildings to invest in on-site renewable energy,” said Jan Culbertson, FAIA, Leadership Chair, Ann Arbor 2030 District.

“Scio Fire was one of the pilots for this program’s Request for Proposal Template. The support of the A2 2030 District gave our administration and Board of Trustees the confidence in our specifications, contractor qualifications and selection,” said Andrew Houde, Fire Chief, Scio Township.  “We are looking forward to our upcoming installation.”

The A2 Area Commercial Solar Program is open to businesses and property owners in Washtenaw County.  There will be an informational webinar on February 28th from 12:00 - 1:00pm, where the program details will be explained, and questions answered. Interested individuals can sign up for this webinar at: Commercial Solar Meeting

The A2 Area Commercial Solar Program is a key component of the city's A²ZERO carbon neutrality plan, which was unanimously adopted by Ann Arbor City Council June 1, 2020. To learn more about the city’s carbon neutrality work, visit? www.a2zero.org.