Greenville joins with United Solar Ovonic LLC on a solar powered future

(MI) Grand Rapids Press – The quest for cheaper, cleaner energy has city and school officials partnering with United Solar Ovonic LLC on a $36 million project to convert their facilities to solar power. “The rationale goes well beyond cutting utility costs. It’s about jump-starting a local and state economy in an emerging industry,” Greenville Public Schools Superintendent Pete Haines said. “It’s more about putting people to work producing and installing than actually generating revenues. More importantly, for the long run, it’s about creating a full-spectrum training site — everything from manufacturing of the product to installing and monitoring.”

Troy’s celebrated solar house left in dark

(MI) The Detroit News – It was supposed to be a shining example of the green movement — a completely independent solar-powered house with no gas or electrical hookups. Seven months ago, officials gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the $900,000 house owned by the city of Troy that was to be used as an educational tool and meeting spot. But it never opened to the public. And it remains closed. More