The Detroit Zoo will be powered by 100 percent Michigan-made renewable energy through DTE Energy's MIGreenPower program.
The move will offset 7,425 tons of carbon dioxide. DTE will source the renewable energy from three new wind parks that will come online in late 2020.
MIGreenPower is a voluntary renewable energy program that helps DTE electric customers reduce their carbon footprint and support the development of other wind and solar energy products in the state.
Enrolled customers can customize their participation and attribute up to 100 percent of their energy use to local wind farms and solar parks.
"Our commitment to sustainability is integrated into everything we do, from our environmentally responsible operations to our community-wide education programs," said Ron Kagan, DZS executive director and CEO, in a news release. "Joining MIGreenPower is a major step forward for us, as our power needs significantly exceed what we can produce on-site. This program helps reduce our carbon footprint while also supporting local, Michigan-made renewable energy."
The zoo has eliminated the sale of single-use plastic water bottles as well as the use of plastic bags, straws and lids.
DTE first launched MIGreenPower in April 2017 and introduced an expanded version of the program for large corporate and industrial customers in January. It is part of the company's commitment to reduce carbon emissions 80% by 2040.
