MBS International Airport is a municipal airport in Freeland, Michigan, and its multi-stage solar powered garage project is about to be completed.

The first phase of the project was completed in September and connected to the grid on February 27th. Energy efficiency and solar company Veregy is currently constructing two phases of the project. A 342 kW solar canopy array covers nearly 200 parking spaces. After completion, MBS became the first airport in Michigan to have a solar powered covered parking lot.

The garage is equipped with lighting and bird deterrent devices, and the airport is installing electric vehicle chargers for passenger cars and electric aircraft. The second phase of the project will have a 646 kW solar canopy and 216 kW ground solar energy.

MBS was recently named the Michigan Department of Transportation's Commercial Airport of the Year, partly due to its solar energy projects and electrification initiatives. These upgrades are fully funded by the airport.

James Canders, Executive Director of MBS, said: "MBS is proud of our partnership with Veregy, which enables us to transform the terminal parking lot into a dual purpose power plant and passenger convenience facility. ”Being named MDOT Commercial Airport of the Year is a testament to the hard work of our team. This project not only reduces our energy consumption, but also provides our passengers with a first-class service level that cannot be found anywhere else in the state. ”

After the completion of the second phase of the project, the airport plans to hold an official ribbon cutting ceremony in the spring of 2026.