The Detroit-based utility has a contract to construct, operate and maintain the site for 20 years, with the canopy set to provide covered parking for 360 vehicles once completed in early 2015.

Ford said the solar photovoltaic panels on the roof will generate 1.038 megawatts annually, enough to power 158 average homes and offset 794 metric tonnes of CO2 emissions each year.

Bill Ford, executive chairman of Ford Motor Company, said: ‘Our fundamental purpose as a company is to make people’s lives better. We do that by creating outstanding products, by investing in communities where our employees live and work, and by using technology to tackle global sustainability challenges. Those beliefs are embodied in this project.’