An important part of the Michigan clean energy legislation passed in 2023 addresses the question of siting for large renewable energy and energy storage facilities across the state. These reforms are crucial for improving air and water quality, addressing the climate crisis, reducing energy costs for residents and meeting resource adequacy needs and renewable energy standards. It is important for advocates for climate action and clean energy to weigh in and ensure the state properly implements them.
Under the law, local units of government retain substantial authority over siting decisions while the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) is authorized to oversee siting decisions in some circumstances. The state agency is seeking input from members of the public on the implementation of the law through virtual workshops, with the first ones scheduled on March 7 and 19.
Details on the public sessions will be posted on the MPSC website here.
Unfortunately, there has been significant confusion and misrepresentation about the new law being spread by opponents of renewable energy who are also trying to repeal it through a ballot measure. For example, the law does not allow for the taking of private lands. Only willing landowners seeking approval for siting large-scale solar, wind or energy storage facilities on their own land are covered. Local units of government retain authority over siting, similar to laws regarding other land use regulations, consistent with the provisions of the law. Public input gathered through these workshops will shape how the MPSC’s authority is implemented. Sierra Club strongly supports this important law and encourages members of the public to decline to sign the petition being circulated by opponents of the law.