New solar to power key Isle Royale services

Isle Royale’s Washington Harbor/Ozaagaateng (formerly known as Windigo) is one of the busiest areas of the island. A destination for ferry services from Grand Portage, MN and Houghton, MI, and the area includes a visitor center, concessions, park offices, and staff housing. Beginning in the 2026 visitor season, those uses will be powered by solar electricity instead of diesel, thanks to upgraded solar supported by NPLSF with key funding from the National Park Foundation.

An old solar array on the site had fallen into disrepair, leaving the entire island powered by fossil fuel that needed to be brought in by boat, creating a potential for spills and other hazards.

Replacement and repair of the solar electric system is expected to provide a 50-75% fuel cost savings at the location. It will allow the island to take its oldest generators out of circulation, improving overall maintenance costs for generator repairs.

The move from fossil fuel to solar also reduces carbon emissions and noise, which improves the experience for visitors who come to Isle Royale for a quiet wilderness experience.

In addition to its economic, resilience, and visitor experience benefits, the solar project also created a vital learning experience.

“Park staff trained permanent and seasonal staff on electrical safety, solar installations, wiring methods, battery system installation and mechanical skills during the work accomplished to date,” said Craig Buttke, the “Power Ranger” electrician for both Isle Royale and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. “This provides parks staff with better working knowledge and understanding of the systems they will maintain and operate.”

According to NPLSF Executive Director Tom Irvine, the project is a key milestone in the effort to help all of Lake Superior’s National Parks transition off fossil fuel. “As one of the most remote National Parks, Isle Royale has much to gain from embracing solar power but also faces challenges due its distance from the mainland,” he said. “Besides the environmental benefits, this project is also dramatically reducing operating costs of the park.”

About NPLSF

The National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation (NPLSF) exists to provide financial support for projects and programs that preserve the natural resources and cultural heritage of the five Lake Superior national parks: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Grand Portage National Monument, Isle Royale National Park, Keweenaw National Historical Park, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Funded through grants and private donations, NPLSF projects and programs ensure that these great parks and historic sites are maintained for the enjoyment of all current and future visitors.

To learn how you can support our work visit nplsf.org/donate.