This Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article highlights Milwaukee County’s newest clean energy initiative at the Marcia P. Coggs Health and Human Services Building, where county leaders unveiled a rooftop solar array designed to reduce emissions, lower energy costs, and support the county’s long-term sustainability goals. The project represents another major step in Milwaukee County’s Climate Action 2050 plan, which aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by mid-century.
The newly installed solar system includes 86 double-sided solar panels mounted on the roof of the four-story building located on West Cherry Street in Milwaukee’s King Park neighborhood. The 50-kilowatt system is expected to offset approximately 11.5% of the facility’s annual energy consumption once it becomes fully operational. County officials estimate the installation will save nearly $9,000 annually in utility costs while significantly reducing the building’s environmental impact.
The project was completed as part of a broader $32 million redevelopment funded through American Rescue Plan Act dollars. The Coggs Center houses Milwaukee County’s Department of Health and Human Services as well as NourishMKE, a community food center that serves residents throughout the area. Officials emphasized that sustainability investments like this not only benefit the environment but also help redirect taxpayer savings into essential public services and underserved communities.
Arch Solar, the Wisconsin-based renewable energy company responsible for the installation, played a central role in bringing the project to life. During the unveiling, Arch Solar representative Andrew Holmstrom explained the environmental impact of the system, noting that the emissions reductions are equivalent to driving 100,000 fewer miles, powering five homes for a year, or eliminating more than 41,000 pounds of coal emissions.
County Executive David Crowley and Board Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson described the installation as both a financial and environmental investment. Leaders said the project demonstrates Milwaukee County’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure, reducing climate impacts, and expanding renewable energy use across public facilities in the years ahead
