MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - MSU continues to work towards lower emissions by building five new large scale solar arrays on campus. Meridian Township and its residents are far behind with solar panels and projects being put in often.

Michigan State starting looking into ways to reduce their emissions in 2012 and landed on the use of solar power. 

Green energy, renewable energy like solar energy is cheaper," said MSU's Physics and Astronomy Professor, Dr. Wolfgang Bauer. "Even though we have to pay a little more for this we put the solar array on car ports so now there is a duel purpose."

MSU is just one large scale example of the rising use of solar power. Local businesses and homeowners are also making the transition.

"There's been a lot of activity in Meridian Township just in the past few years," said Meridian local, John Sarver.

Sarver installed his solar panel in 2010 and says his also serves as roofing. "You just buy it, install it, and it generates energy."

Sarver says neighbors ask him frequently about his choice to use solar power and some have seemed interested in installing their own.

"The word is staring to get out how costs have gone down," said Sarver.

"Sustainability has to be good for the environment, but it also has to be good for your pocket books," explains Professor Bauer.

According to the Scientific American Installation costs have gone down dramatically and appears unlikely to slow down.

"There is real progress being made and has been made over the last 5-10 years and i expect this fantastic progress to continue over the next 5-10 years and then it'll be an everyday occurrence," said Bauer.

Solar power is not only good for the environment, but can also be a good investment. Haslett Community Church  is hosting an open house on July  9th to share their solar power experience  with the community.

Sarver  says this is a great opportunity for meridian township to come learn more about solar power options.