Midland Council considers $7.3M solar and EV charging project for airport

The Midland City Council convened on March 10, 2025, to discuss a significant infrastructure project aimed at enhancing the city’s energy efficiency and electric vehicle (EV) charging capabilities. The proposed project, estimated at $7.3 million, includes the installation of solar panels and EV charging stations at the local airport.

The project is designed to cover the short-term parking lot with a solar canopy, which is expected to offset approximately 35% of the energy used in the terminal. Additionally, another project at the rental car lot aims to contribute an additional 17% energy offset, bringing the total to 52% of the terminal's energy needs being met through solar power if the bond passes.

Key features of the project include the installation of ten Level 2 EV chargers and twenty Level 1 chargers, which will support the growing demand for electric vehicle infrastructure. Level 2 chargers can fully charge vehicles in about six to eight hours, while Level 1 chargers are standard household outlets. Furthermore, the project will incorporate ground-based solar arrays to power airfield lighting, contributing to approximately 9% of the energy required for this purpose.

The council also discussed the potential for a Level 3 charger, which would provide faster charging for private electric aircraft, reflecting the increasing presence of electric aviation in the region. The solar panels are projected to have a lifespan of 25 years, with potential productivity extending up to 50 years, and all materials used in the project will be recyclable.

During the meeting, council members inquired about the capital breakdown of the project. It was clarified that solar panels account for about 30% of the total project cost, with the remainder allocated to the construction of canopies, lighting, and other necessary accessories. The anticipated payback period for the investment is around 15 years, although a federal rebate could potentially reduce this timeframe to between 10 and 12 years.

The council's discussions highlighted the importance of local contractors, as all labor and materials for the project will be sourced from Michigan. The meeting concluded with a call for further consideration of the revenue bond and resolutions necessary to move forward with the project, which aims to position Midland as a leader in sustainable energy and electric vehicle infrastructure.