In the last century, many energy sources have been embraced to generate power – from steam and coal to natural gas and nuclear fission.
Now we’re seeing a solar power spike in popularity across the world — and since its source is endless, we’ll never run out!
So far in 2026, solar power is creating more energy than fossil fuels, becoming the third largest energy source in the world, and while just about everyone agrees that solar power is an environmentally friendly way to generate energy, many are still wondering about the impact of the equipment itself.
Solar panels rest on aluminum or steel poles, like traffic signs or light posts, and cause no harm to the ground they are implanted in. The solar panels the poles support are made of glass, solar cells, wiring, and connectors that are all highly regulated and monitored to be safe for the land and life around them.
The solar cells themselves are typically made of silicon crystal, which converts sunlight into electricity when its electrons are stimulated by the light. These cells are covered in tempered glass and a protective material similar to the soles of running shoes. These layers keep the solar cells insulated from the environment and help them better conduct electricity, while also reducing the risk of the panels breaking.
If a break does occur, these layers also keep the solar cells in place and allow for the panel to be easily switched out with a new one.
On average, these panels are projected to last 25 years, producing quiet, clean energy in the solar park—but solar power isn’t the only thing these parks produce.
DTE ensures that native flora is planted in and around the solar park, attracting the pollinators in the area while keeping the ground cool and shady. At the project’s end, the solar park will be carefully deconstructed, and the land will be returned to its original condition.
At DTE, we’re ready to meet the demand for solar power in the communities we serve while being good stewards of the land we depend on to build these solar parks.
Visit dteenergy.com/renew to learn more about solar power’s bright future.