A major focus of the Muskegon Lakeshore SmartZone is research and development of energy-related products and technology. Economic development activities that leverage the region’s strengths in aerospace, automotive technologies, materials science, military vehicles, and office environments are being concentrated to create a center of excellence that fosters innovation and product development in emerging energy technologies.

Funding for the first energy demonstration project has already been secured. Grand Valley State University (GVSU) has received a $3 million grant from the Michigan Public Service Commission that is being used to develop a photovoltaic roof for the GVSU facility which will integrate stationary fuel cell, heat recovery, and energy storage technologies into this “Office Building of the Future.”