MI House passes solar zoning legislation

MI House passes solar zoning legislation

Legislation that would return control of major solar and wind projects to local communities has been approved by the Michigan House. Supporters of the plan, including state Representative Pat Outman of Six Lakes in mid-Michigan, said the legislation is about restoring public trust in government. “Let’s be clear, this isn’t a debate about alternative energy,” Outman said. “We all want sustainable, affordable energy. We all want more jobs and inno…

Prestin votes to restore local control on renewable energy projects

Legislation would return zoning authority for projects back to local governments

Rep. Alexander's proposed bills supporting local control in renewable energy siting passes Michigan House

Proposals from state Rep. Greg Alexander, of Carsonville, reaffirming local input and authority on large-scale energy siting projects were advanced Wednesday, April 30, by the Michigan House. Signed laws in 2023 pre-empted local authority for renewable energy siting, drawing concern and pushback from local leaders. With the new laws, the unelected Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) was given the power to circumvent local decision-making a…

Michigan House votes to repeal law that removed local control over solar, wind permits

The Michigan House on Wednesday passed a repeal of a 2023 law that removed local control over large-scale solar and wind farm permitting and gave that authority to state utility regulators. The bill, which is likely to hit a brick wall of opposition in the Democratic-led Senate, passed along party lines, 58-48, in the Republican-led House. “When this legislation was passed in 2023, it took away the voice of our local elected officials and handed…