Barton Malow has officially completed the Renegade Solar Energy Center in Michigan’s Delta and Marquette counties. Developed by Invenergy and acquired by Upper Michigan Energy Resources (UMERC), a subsidiary of WEC Energy Group, the 100-megawatt facility will generate enough electricity to power more than 27,000 homes using American-made solar panels manufactured at Invenergy’s Illuminate facility.
With over 192,000 safe work hours completed on site, the Renegade Solar Energy Center supported a peak construction workforce of 125 jobs and prioritized local-based contractors, including two firms from the Upper Peninsula. In operations, the site will employ three full-time staff members and continue to serve as a long-term community partner.
“Bringing the Renegade Solar Energy Center online is a great example of what’s possible when the right partners come together around a shared goal. We’re proud to have played a role in delivering reliable energy to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and to have supported local jobs and communities,” said Joe Blanchette, Vice President of Project Delivery at Barton Malow.
Invenergy oversaw development and construction and will continue to provide operations and maintenance services for the facility.
“Thanks to UMERC and our construction partners, we’re proud to have brought the Renegade Solar Energy Center online and ready to meet the ever-growing energy needs of Michigan communities,” said Sam Heagney, Invenergy developer. “Invenergy is excited to support American energy independence and we look forward to continued partnership in the Upper Peninsula.”
“Invenergy has been an exemplary partner, and I appreciate their team’s responsiveness and willingness to work with our community to bring Renegade Solar to life,” said Dave Hall, Ewing, Michigan Township Supervisor. “The project is already helping bring in revenue for local improvements that will better our quality of life, which is especially important for a small town that doesn’t always have new sources of funding. I have been honored to support this team effort and look forward to being a part of Michigan’s energy future.”
Three townships—Ewing, Baldwin, and Maple Ridge—and Delta County received grants totaling nearly $500,000 through the Michigan EGLE Renewable Ready Communities program for a variety of community enhancements. In 2025, Invenergy contributed more than $10,000 to local organizations, including the Tri-Township Fire Department, Rock Lions Club, Mid-Peninsula Robotics Team, and Gladstone Area Public Schools.
