EAST LANSING - Consumers energy is launching a new project called “solar gardens”. There are three locations that will be picked in mid-Michigan, and Meridian Township is in the top ten.

The garden will consist of an array of solar voltaic panels. It will require 4-7 acres of land to complete the garden.

“Solar voltaic systems convert sunlight directly into electricity and that electricity is fed into the power grid and distributed through the power grid,” said LeRoy Harvey Meridian Township’s Recycling & Energy Coordinator.

Harvey also says that the only way the garden will be placed in Meridian Township is if the community expresses their interest. Members of the community can express their interest by visiting consumers energy online.

Consumers Energy will decide what locations the solar panels will be located at by the end of this summer.

Both residential and business owners can purchase panels. After the panels are paid for the energy produced will be credited to your Consumers Energy billing account.