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Author: Gregory Creason

TCLP Adds Hart Solar to Its Diverse Clean Energy Portfolio

Written by Gregory Creason on . Posted in News.

New Michigan solar resource supports TCLP’s comprehensive approach to a cleaner, reliable and affordable energy future

Traverse City, Mich. – Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) is expanding its renewable energy portfolio through participation in Hart Solar, a new utility-scale solar project located in Oceana County that recently entered commercial operation.

TCLP is one of 14 Michigan municipal utilities receiving energy from Hart Solar through the Michigan Public Power Agency (MPPA). The project adds another Michigan-based renewable resource to TCLP’s power supply portfolio and is expected to provide approximately 7% of TCLP’s annual renewable energy supply.

The complete solar installation is rated at 120 megawatts (MWs), with 50 MWs allocated to municipal utilities as facilitated through MPPA.  Those 50 MWs are expected to generate enough electricity to power approximately 8,580 homes. TCLP accounts for 26.4% of the municipal utility investment.

“We have to look at the clean energy transition through both an environmental and financial lens,” said Karla Myers-Beman, Chief Financial Officer of TCLP. “Hart Solar gives us an opportunity to diversify our power supply and provide greater long-term cost stability, while our partnership through MPPA allows us to share the investment and risk associated with projects like this. That combination of sustainability, reliability and financial stewardship is important to TCLP and our customers.”

Hart Solar is one part of TCLP’s comprehensive approach to building a cleaner energy future. Rather than relying on a single resource or technology, TCLP is developing a diverse portfolio that combines utility-scale renewable generation with local initiatives. These include the Customer Generation Program, which helps customers integrate small-scale renewable energy systems; demand response programs that help participating businesses reduce electricity use during periods of high demand; and the Hall Street solar canopy and battery storage project, which demonstrates how existing public spaces can become productive energy assets.

“We don’t believe there’s one answer to a cleaner energy future. It takes many answers working together,” said Brandie Ekren, Executive Director of TCLP. “Hart Solar brings more Michigan-made renewable energy to our community, and it sits alongside the work we’re doing on storage, customer solar, and demand response. I’m proud of how these pieces are coming together for Traverse City.”

Together, these efforts support TCLP’s long-term Strategic Plan and advance the utility’s work toward a more diverse, resilient and sustainable power supply – one that balances environmental sustainability with reliability, affordability and responsible financial stewardship while serving the evolving needs of the Traverse City community.

About Traverse City Light & Power

Serving the community for over a century, Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) is a municipally owned utility providing electric and telecommunication services to Traverse City and the surrounding areas. Guided by its mission to deliver affordable, reliable and sustainable services, TCLP’s vision is to be a trusted partner in powering a sustainable and connected community. The utility’s Strategic Plan focuses on six priorities: Community Enrichment, Employee Excellence, Customer Experience, Operational & Financial Excellence, Technology Transition, and Environmental Sustainability.

For more information about TCLP’s Renewable Energy Sources, visit www.tclp.org/renewable.

TCLP Will Hold a Public Hearing Regarding the Upcoming Electric Base Rate Adjustment

Written by Gregory Creason on . Posted in Board Updates, News.

Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) will hold a public hearing regarding the upcoming Electric Base Rate Adjustment on September 8, 2026, at the regular meeting of the TCLP Board.

All customers are invited to attend and provide comment regarding the new rate during the public hearing.

The TCLP Board meeting will begin at 5:15 p.m. in the Commission Chambers located at the Governmental Center, 400 Boardman Avenue.  

Documents detailing the proposed new rate increase can be found on the TCLP website under The Board.

Traverse City Light & Power rate adjustment presentation for August 2026
TCLP’s August 2026 rate adjustment presentation, presented by Chief Financial Officer Karla Myers-Beman.

TCLP Expands Regional EV Charging Network with a Fast-Charging Site in Elmwood Township

Written by Gregory Creason on . Posted in News.

June 29, 2026

Contact: Hannah Duell, Communications Specialist, (231) 932-4544, hduell@tclp.org

TRAVERSE CITY, MI. – Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) has expanded electric vehicle charging access in the Grand Traverse region through a new partnership with Elmwood Township to install four DC fast chargers at Brewery Creek, located in Greilickville on the west side of M-22 (Cedar Street), in the parking area across from the Elmwood Township Marina near the Greilickville Harbor waterfront.

The TCLP Board approved a ten-year agreement with Elmwood Township to host the new charging station site, which will become part of the TCEV Network. The project includes four ChargePoint DC fast chargers capable of providing rapid charging for electric vehicles and supporting the growing demand for EV infrastructure throughout the region.

Brewery Creek was selected after TCLP evaluated several potential locations that met funding requirements and construction timelines. The site stood out due to its high visibility, convenient access, proximity to local amenities, and the need for additional fast-charging options in the area.

Site of TCLP’s newest DC fast charging station at Brewery Creek in Elmwood Township. The location features four ChargePoint DC fast chargers and expands fast-charging access along the M-22 corridor.

Funding for the charging equipment was provided through TCLP’s previously approved agreement with General Motors (GM), which offered TCLP the opportunity to add an additional charging site under the program. The project is also eligible for reimbursement through the federal Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit (30C) direct pay program, which may cover up to 40 percent of eligible project costs not funded through the GM agreement. The installation of the chargers was completed at no cost to Elmwood Township.

“Expanding fast-charging infrastructure is an important step in supporting transportation electrification across our region. Brewery Creek fills a gap in the existing charging network and provides residents and visitors with a convenient, reliable place to charge while enjoying nearby businesses and amenities,” said Jacob Hardy, Sustainability and Key Accounts Manager at TCLP.

The Brewery Creek charging station is now open and available to the public. The four DC fast chargers can provide a substantial charge in as little as 30 to 45 minutes, depending on vehicle type and battery condition, offering a convenient charging option for residents, commuters, and visitors traveling through the Grand Traverse region and along the M-22 corridor. The Brewery Creek site further strengthens the regional charging network and supports the continued adoption of electric vehicles throughout Northern Michigan.

“Elmwood Township is pleased to partner with Traverse City Light & Power to bring this important service to our community,” said Harbormaster Dan Jenuwine. “While Brewery Creek Parking is reserved exclusively for visitors using the Elmwood Township Marina and Greilickville Park, the four EV charging stations are open to the public and available for anyone to use at any time. We are proud to help meet the growing needs of electric vehicle owners while adding another valuable amenity that benefits both our residents and visitors to the Grand Traverse region.”

The project directly supports TCLP’s strategic priorities of customer experience, environmental sustainability, and community enrichment by expanding reliable charging access for residents, visitors, and businesses.

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About Traverse City Light and Power

Serving the community for over a century, Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) is a municipally owned utility providing electric and telecommunication services to Traverse City and the surrounding areas. Guided by its mission to deliver affordable, reliable, and sustainable services, TCLP’s vision is to be a trusted partner in powering a sustainable and connected community. The utility’s Strategic Plan focuses on six priorities: Community Enrichment, Employee Excellence, Customer Experience, Operational & Financial Excellence, Technology Transition, and Environmental Sustainability.

For more information on TCLP and its commitment to reliability, visit www.tclp.org

Center Lane Closure on South Union Street Fiber Manhole Work

Written by Gregory Creason on . Posted in News.

June 12, 2026

Contact: Stephanie Tvardek, Scheduling & Operations Coordinator, (231)-932-4565, stvardek@tclp.org

TRAVERSE CITY, MI — Residents, businesses, motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians should be aware that Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) will perform underground fiber installation work on South Union Street at the intersection of West State Street on Thursday, June 18, 2026.  Work will take place in the manhole at that intersection and will require a temporary closure of the center lane on South Union Street south of West State Street from 7:00 a.m. to approximately 3:30 p.m., weather permitting, to perform the work safely.  Two-way traffic will be maintained using the northbound and southbound lanes of South Union Street.

During construction, the pedestrian crosswalk at South Union Street on the south side of West State Street will be closed.  Appropriate signage will be in place indicating the work area and detours, and access to all businesses will be maintained at all times.  If possible, please use alternative routes to avoid this area to reduce congestion, delay, and promote worker safety.

We would like to thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation.  Please contact the TCLP Scheduling & Operations Coordinator at (231) 932-4565 if you have any questions or concerns regarding this work. 


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About Traverse City Light & Power

Serving the community for over a century, Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) is a municipally owned utility providing electric and telecommunication services to Traverse City and the surrounding areas. Guided by its mission to deliver affordable, reliable, and sustainable services, TCLP’s vision is to be a trusted partner in powering a sustainable and connected community. The utility’s Strategic Plan focuses on six priorities: Community Enrichment, Employee Excellence, Customer Experience, Operational & Financial Excellence, Technology Transition, and Environmental Sustainability.

For more information on TCLP and its commitment to reliability, visit www.tclp.org

Northbound Lane Closure on Hall Street Fiber Manhole Work

Written by Gregory Creason on . Posted in News.

May 22, 2026

Contact: Stephanie Tvardek, Scheduling & Operations Coordinator, (231)-932-4565, stvardek@tclp.org

TRAVERSE CITY, MI — Residents, businesses, motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians should be aware that Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) will perform underground fiber installation work on Hall Street between W Front Street and Garland Street on Thursday, May 28, 2026.  Work will take place in manholes near 130 Hall Street and will require a temporary closure of the northbound lane between the north and south entrances to the 130 Hall Street parking lot from 7:00 a.m. to approximately 1:00 p.m., weather permitting, to perform the work safely.  Two-way traffic will be maintained using the southbound lane.

During construction, Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) bus stop #9175 located on the east side of Hall Street will be temporarily shifted to the south, and the west-side Bayline bus stop located on the west side of Hall Street will be temporarily shifted to the south side of the BATA transit center building.  Appropriate signage will be in place indicating the work area and detours, and access to all businesses will be maintained at all times.  If possible, please use alternative routes to avoid this area to reduce congestion, delay, and promote worker safety.

We would like to thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation.  Please contact the TCLP Scheduling & Operations Coordinator at (231) 932-4565 if you have any questions or concerns regarding this work. 


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About Traverse City Light & Power

Serving the community for over a century, Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) is a municipally owned utility providing electric and telecommunication services to Traverse City and the surrounding areas. Guided by its mission to deliver affordable, reliable, and sustainable services, TCLP’s vision is to be a trusted partner in powering a sustainable and connected community. The utility’s Strategic Plan focuses on six priorities: Community Enrichment, Employee Excellence, Customer Experience, Operational & Financial Excellence, Technology Transition, and Environmental Sustainability.

For more information on TCLP and its commitment to reliability, visit www.tclp.org

Upcoming TCLP Tree Trimming Along the TART Trail

Written by Gregory Creason on . Posted in News.

May 5, 2026

Contact: Stephanie Tvardek, Scheduling & Operations Coordinator, (231)-932-4565, stvardek@tclp.org

TRAVERSE CITY, MI — Residents, businesses, bicyclists, and pedestrians should be aware that Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) will perform tree trimming along the TART Trail network area known as “Boardman Lake Trail Bridge – North” on Thursday, May 7, 2026.  Work will take place at the north end of Boardman Lake along the TART Trail west of the bridge, and tree trimming equipment will temporarily impede trail access in this section from 9:00 a.m. to approximately 11:00 a.m., weather permitting, to perform the work safely.  Bicyclists and pedestrians will be allowed to navigate around the work area off the Trail.

If possible, please use alternative routes to avoid this area to reduce congestion and promote worker safety.

We would like to thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation.  Please contact the TCLP Scheduling & Operations Coordinator at (231) 932-4565 if you have any questions or concerns regarding this work. 


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About Traverse City Light & Power

Serving the community for over a century, Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) is a municipally owned utility providing electric and telecommunication services to Traverse City and the surrounding areas. Guided by its mission to deliver affordable, reliable, and sustainable services, TCLP’s vision is to be a trusted partner in powering a sustainable and connected community. The utility’s Strategic Plan focuses on six priorities: Community Enrichment, Employee Excellence, Customer Experience, Operational & Financial Excellence, Technology Transition, and Environmental Sustainability.

For more information on TCLP and its commitment to reliability, visit www.tclp.org