As Michigan’s first tribal casino when it opened in 1998, FireKeepers Casino Hotel has long been a leader in the state’s $4.68 billion gaming industry. The Battle Creek property is once again breaking new ground by becoming the first casino in Michigan to power its entire facility through 100% renewable energy sources by 2025.
To achieve this ambitious environmental sustainability goal, the casino has pledged to source all its electricity through Consumers Energy’s renewable energy programs. The state public utility established the initiative to help businesses in Michigan offset their carbon footprints and reduce their environmental impact with clean energy options.
The move by FireKeepers aligns with the growing demand for eco-conscious practices in the gaming industry and sets a benchmark for other casinos to follow. When the partnership with Consumers Energy was announced last month, Frank Tecumseh, the Chief Executive Officer of FireKeepers Casino Hotel, said it was an important next step in the casino’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship.
CEO Tecumseh added that FireKeepers has always believed in being good stewards of the land and reducing its environmental impact. The promising news comes as the Illinois Gaming Board considers revoking the gambling licenses of operators who have engaged in illegal operations in the past.
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Partnering with Consumers Energy for Renewable Power
In late October, FireKeepers announced a new sustainability partnership with Michigan’s largest utility, Consumers Energy. As part of the partnership, the casino will be the first in the state to join CE’s Renewable Energy Program, which allows businesses in Michigan to purchase carbon offset credits and Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) from the utility.
Under the terms of the agreement, Consumers Energy will source all of FireKeepers’ electricity needs – approximately 31,527 megawatt-hours per year – from its growing portfolio of wind, solar farms, and hydroelectric power sources. This includes power purchased through the utility’s MIGreenPower voluntary renewable energy program.
Eric Clinton, the Director of Renewable Products at Consumers Energy, expressed pride in the partnership with FireKeepers on the innovative sustainability project. He stated that the casino is setting a powerful example by committing to clean, renewable energy. Eric added that Consumers Energy is focused on helping more businesses adopt carbon-free power sources and building a sustainable future for Michigan.
Adding to the Strength of Consumers Energy’s Renewable Energy Program
FireKeepers is just one of many businesses that have joined Consumers Energy’s clean energy program. Through this program, the utility aims to retire all its coal facilities by 2024, paving the way for a carbon-neutral power grid in Michigan by 2040.
FireKeepers will continue to purchase renewable energy credits equivalent to 100% of its annual usage to account for the electricity supplied through the local grid. This allows the casino to claim the environmental benefits of power generated from sources like wind turbines and solar panels.
The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi, which owns FireKeepers Casino Hotel, has a long history of environmental stewardship on their sovereign land near Battle Creek. The tribe has previously installed solar panels and used biomass to heat tribal buildings, showing that their commitment to sustainability goes back decades.
This new renewable energy partnership is an extension of the Potawatomi people’s dedication to being responsible stewards of the natural resources they care for. It allows FireKeepers to give back to the community by supporting the growth of Michigan’s clean energy economy while also protecting the land and environment for future generations – core values that have been passed down for centuries.
The spokesperson for the band added that the commitment makes FireKeepers the largest commercial customer in Michigan to go completely carbon-free.
A Multifaceted Approach to Sustainability
FireKeepers Casino Hotel has been making strides towards becoming a more sustainable and energy-efficient property for over a decade. The management has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives, from recycled carpet and LED lighting to water conservation measures at their pool entertainment complex.
FireKeepers Casino’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its energy consumption. The casino has implemented a comprehensive sustainability program that encompasses various initiatives, including waste reduction and recycling. The casino has implemented comprehensive waste reduction and recycling programs to minimize waste generation and divert waste from landfills.
FireKeepers Casino has also implemented water conservation measures. This helps the establishment reduce water consumption by installing water-efficient fixtures and implementing water reuse practices. The casino’s facilities are designed and operated with sustainability in mind, incorporating energy-efficient technologies and building materials.
Reducing Casino Emissions Through Clean Energy
The switch to 100% renewable energy is estimated to allow FireKeepers Casino Hotel to cut its carbon emissions by over 35,000 tons annually. According to EPA’s Greenhouse Gases Equivalencies Calculator, that’s equivalent to the amount of carbon sequestered by over 58,000 acres of US forests in one year.
The carbon offsets from the switch are also equal to taking over 60,000 gas-fueled passenger vehicles or 13,500 garbage trucks off the road each year. The same sentiments were echoed by FireKeepers’ VP of Marketing, Larry Romero, who hoped the significant reduction in emissions would inspire other businesses in Michigan to follow their lead.
Leading the Way in Sustainable Gaming
As the first commercial customer in Michigan to commit to sourcing 100% of its power needs from renewable sources, FireKeepers is blazing a new trail. Their leadership position is an important example for others in the gaming sector, which needs to catch up in adopting sustainable practices.
FireKeepers’ renewable energy partnership sets a new standard that could push other casino and sports betting operators to explore clean power options. It demonstrates to stakeholders, regulators, and community members that a carbon-free future is achievable, even for large energy users like casinos.
Wrapping Up
FireKeepers Casino’s commitment to 100% renewable energy and its comprehensive sustainability program position the casino as a leader in the gaming industry. The casino’s actions serve as a model for other businesses, demonstrating that sustainability is not only achievable but also essential for long-term success.
