TCLP Leads Public Power Investment in White Tail Solar Project
February 17, 2026
Contact: Hannah Duell, Communications Specialist, (231) 932-4544, hduell@tclp.org
Traverse City, MI – Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) is now receiving energy from the White Tail Solar project in Washtenaw County, which entered commercial operation in late 2025. Through a power purchase agreement executed in partnership with the Michigan Public Power Agency (MPPA), TCLP secured 6.6 megawatts of solar energy—representing 26.4 % of the combined 25-megawatt public power agreement—making TCLP the largest participant in the project.
The White Tail array is rated at 140 megawatts total capacity, with all energy contracted to Michigan’s public power utilities. TCLP joined thirteen other municipal providers across the state in the shared 25MW agreement, demonstrating the continued strength of public power collaboration in delivering sustainable, cost-effective energy resources.
“As the largest investor in White Tail Solar, TCLP secured 6.6 megawatts of Michigan-based solar energy for our portfolio. This investment strengthens our progress toward cleaner energy while supporting reliability and long-term cost stability for our customers,” said Brandie Ekren, TCLP Executive Director.
“This project reflects TCLP’s disciplined financial planning and thoughtful portfolio strategy,” said Karla Myers-Beman, TCLP Chief Financial Officer. “By participating at this scale, we were able to secure long-term energy pricing while balancing risk and maintaining flexibility in our broader resource mix. Investments like this are evaluated not only for their environmental value, but for their long-term benefit to our ratepayers.”
The announcement comes as utilities across Michigan continue to advance renewable energy and carbon reduction goals. Through measured and strategic investments in projects such as White Tail Solar, TCLP continues to strengthen its long-term energy portfolio while maintaining financial stewardship for the community it serves.
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