SPRINGPORT TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WILX) – A proposed solar farm spanning multiple Mid-Michigan Counties is stirring up concern.
The company behind the project is looking at the positives, while people who live there are pointing out the potential problems.
The planned 225 MW solar energy project is in Hamlin, Brookfield, and Springport Townships.
Hecate Energy, the company in charge, said it’ll bring new jobs to the area and provide clean energy.
However, locals said it’ll take away the rural feel of their towns, amongst many other things.
“As a whole have I been heard from Hecate? No. I don’t think they honestly care. I think they’re going to put their solar panels right in my backyard,” said concerned Hamlin Township Resident Ali Griffith.
People who live in the area have tons of questions on how this project will affect their day to day lives.
“Loss of farmland is probably the biggest concern,” said Springport Township Resident Vanessa Mulnix.
To answer those concerns Hecate set up an open house style forum at Springport High School.
“It’s part of the process to take comments and try to address them in our permitted application,” said Project Developer Mark Zwieg.
Although, the open house setting didn’t cut it for residents. They were hoping for something a little more formal.
“To have to come and try to interview different employees and ask my own little tiny questions… I want to hear my neighbors’ questions. I want to hear the answers to my neighbors questions,” said Griffith.
While neighbors feel the company is not being receptive to their concerns, Hecate said it’s doing what it can to listen and remain transparent.
“The more comments regarding the project the better,” said Zwieg.
Hecate said this is just the beginning of the process and there will be more public meetings in the future.
For more information on the project, click here.
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