DTE Energy issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) to develop a solar generating facility with capacity ranging from 5MW to 50MW. The RFP will be issued Wednesday, June 24 and notices of intent to bid are due by Wednesday, July 22. 

The solar generating facility must be in DTE Energy's service area and operational by Dec. 31, 2016. DTE welcomes proposals for projects within the city of Detroit as well as surrounding communities. 

DTE Energy currently owns and operates more than 20 large solar installations in Michigan, including projects at Ford Motor Co. headquarters in Dearborn and Monroe County Community College in Monroe. The company recently began construction of a 1.1MW solar installation near Domino's Farms, just east of Ann Arbor. The project, which will have the capacity to power nearly 200 homes, will be completed and operational by the end of the year.

"DTE is the largest investor in solar in the state," said Irene Dimitry, DTE Energy vice president, Business Planning & Development. "The development of a new solar project reflects DTE Energy's broader commitment to build a more sustainable future for our customers."

The company also is exploring development of a voluntary pilot program for customers who want to purchase additional power generated from renewable energy sources.