Data Guide: Clean Energy

Data Forum Highlights: Clean Energy

Leaders from across Detroit’s sustainability and environmental sectors came together to share updates, insights, and visions for the city’s clean energy future at the most recent data forum hosted at Detroit Tech Xchange on July 11th. The event spotlighted how Detroiters are preparing for a clean energy future to combat climate change and improve quality of life in the city. Watch the full data forum here.

Clean Energy as a Cornerstone

Tepfirah Rushdan, Director of Sustainability for the City of Detroit, emphasized that clean energy is not just a goal—it’s the foundation of the city’s climate strategy. Detroit’s clean energy plan is built around three core pillars:

• Productive Use of Vacant Land: The Solar Neighborhoods project spans 18 square miles of vacant land, transforming underutilized spaces into sources of renewable energy.
• Climate Action: Municipal buildings are a major focus, as they account for 62% of citywide greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing their footprint is a top priority.
• Community Empowerment: Solar arrays are being installed in high-need areas, paired with energy-efficient upgrades for nearby homes. One attendee raised the issue of solar panels being an eyesore, making it difficult for neighbors to enjoy the area.

Environmental Health at Home

Gary Ringer, CEO of Eco-Environmental Solutions, highlighted the importance of environmental remediation. His organization tackles issues like lead, asbestos, radon, and indoor air quality through:

• Home assessments to help residents know how their home environment may be impacting them
• Resident education on prioritizing safety and efficiency
• A holistic approach to viewing homes as interconnected systems impacting residents’ health

Building Resilience on the East Side

Arena Johnson, Climate Equity Program Manager at Eastside Community Network (ECN), shared how ECN is fostering resilience through education, advocacy, and infrastructure. The Resilient East Side Initiative includes:

• 12 resilience hubs, with 10 undergoing solar feasibility studies and 2 already equipped with solar panels and energy storage. These hubs provide resources for Detroiters impacted by climate emergencies like power outages and heat waves.
• A completed solar installation on ECN’s own roof
• An electric vehicle carshare program launched in April 2024
• Ongoing advocacy through the Eastside Climate Action Coalition

Get the data on the state of clean energy in Detroit

Map: Impact Assessment of the Detroit Solar Neighborhoods Detroitography

This map analyzes the impact the city's Solar Neighborhoods project has on urban heat islands in Detroit.

Project Sunroof Google

Estimated potential for solar panels on building roofs in the city.

Energy Water Benchmarking Ordinance Properties City of Detroit

Properties over 25,000 square feet which fall under the Water Benchmarking Ordinance passed by City Council in 2023.

Energy Water Benchmarking Ordinance Properties Usage City of Detroit

Water and energy usage of the Energy Water Benchmarking Ordinance properties.

Urban Heat Island Effect Climate Central

Map of the severity of the urban heat island effect in Detroit.

Tree Canopy Cover USDA Forest Service

Percentage of land covered by tree canopy.

Impervious surface U.S. Geological Survey

Percentage of land area covered by impervious surfaces.