The move is a part of MIGreenPower program launched in 2017 (Image via: Michiganradio.org)

Detroit Zoo to Operate By Using 100% Renewable Energy

The zoo located on Detroit’s suburb of Royal Oak just announced its upcoming revolution, which is it will be powered entirely by renewable energy. This shifting of energy use is the part of DTE Energy’s MIGreenPower program. The program will allow customers to take care of the environment by reducing carbon footprint and supporting the development of additional wind energy projects, as well as solar energy. DTE Energy’s MIGreenPower program is a “Greenprint” strategic plan of the Detroit Zoological Society to decrease its operation’s impact to the environment.

DTE strives to reduce carbon emissions 80% by 2040 and MIGreenPower program is one of its solutions. The DTE customers can participate in this program by giving additional payment (per kilowatt-hour) for electricity. The money will be used to fund a wind park on the shores of Lake Huron, as well as solar parks in Detroit and Lapeer, Michigan, U.S. The customers will help the zoo to offset 7,425 metric tons of carbon dioxide. Detroit Zoo is expected to use renewable energy fully by the end of 2020.

Detroit Zoo’s commitment to the environment has been strong. The zoo has permeable pavement that diverts rainwater from the storm water drains and anaerobic digester that converts herbivore animal waste and food scraps into compost and energy. Detroit zoo also use solar/electric hybrid golf carts and bicycles for on-site transportation and reduce the use of plastic bags, straws, and lids. Not only that, it becomes the first zoo in the U.S. to install a Smartflower, an all-in-one ground-mounted solar panel system that generates more than 4,000 kilowatts of electricity annually. The zoo had also cooperated with DTE to complete energy efficiency upgrades in its buildings.

Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2019/08/24/us/detroit-zoo-renewable-energy-trnd/index.html?no-st=1566711148