MBS International Airport Elevates Passenger Experience with Michigan’s Largest Airport Solar Array and Award-Winning Sustainability Initiatives
Freeland, MI, March 10, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MBS International Airport, in partnership with Veregy, is proud to announce the nearing completion of its landmark $2.3 million solar energy project. This multi-phase initiative has officially established MBS as a leader in aviation sustainability, recently earning the prestigious title of “Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Commercial Airport of the Year.”
The award was presented to Airport Executive Director James Canders on February 19, 2026, during the Michigan Airport Conference in East Lansing. This recognition highlights the airport's commitment to innovation, specifically through the integration of the largest airport solar array in the state of Michigan.
Enhancing the Passenger Experience
The centerpiece of the project is a massive solar canopy system covering nearly 200 premium parking spaces. MBS is currently the only airport in Michigan to provide passengers with the convenience of covered parking with solar canopies.
The project has seen an enthusiastic response from travelers:
Award-Winning Performance and Innovation
Recognized as the Veregy East Project of the Year, the initiative consists of two distinct phases designed to maximize energy independence:
Sustainable Impact and Fiscal Responsibility
The total investment for both phases represents a $9.5 million commitment to the region's future.
“MBS is proud of the partnership with Veregy that has allowed us to transform our terminal parking into a dual-purpose power plant and passenger amenity,” said James Canders, Airport Executive Director. “Being named MDOT Commercial Airport of the Year is a testament to our team's hard work. This project not only reduces our energy usage but provides a premier level of service to our travelers that you won't find anywhere else in the state.”
Following the completion of Phase II, the airport is planning a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony in Spring 2026.
About MBS International Airport
MBS International Airport, formally named Tri-City Airport, is a special municipality uniquely owned and operated by the City of Midland, the City of Saginaw, and the County of Bay. Located in Freeland, Michigan, the airport is strategically positioned to serve as a vital transportation hub for the three owning communities.
In 2026, MBS was named the “Michigan Department of Transportation Commercial Airport of the Year,” recognizing its excellence in facility management and commitment to innovative infrastructure. As a leader in sustainable aviation, MBS is home to the largest airport solar array in the state of Michigan, providing clean energy and premier amenities like solar-covered parking to travelers. Learn more at www.mbsairport.org.
About Veregy
Veregy is an award-winning NAESCO-accredited decarbonization company focusing on accelerating and simplifying the Energy Transition. With extensive experience serving Michigan communities and offices in 13 locations across the country, Veregy provides turnkey engineering and construction services designed to reduce their clients' energy and operating costs through the implementation of energy efficiency and infrastructure upgrades, smart building technology, fleet EV infrastructure, clean energy generation, and sustainability. The national firm has over 35 years of industry experience and has delivered more than $2.1B+ in energy savings projects. To learn more about Veregy, visit their website at www.veregy.com.
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CONTACT:
Vincent Esparza
VP of Marketing and Communications
Veregy
602-452-8746
vesparza@veregy.com
James Canders
Airport Executive Director
MBS International Airport
989-695-5555
canders@mbsairport.org
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