LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – The Fayette Township Planning Commission received a proposal for a new solar farm in the city of Jonesville.
The meeting to discuss the project was set for Jan.5, but had to be postponed because they couldn’t accommodate the number of people who showed up to discuss it.
Ranger Power plans to build the “Heartwood Solar II project” in the area of US 12 and White Road in Fayette Township. The project would create a 140-megawatt energy facility, which could take up 700 to 1,400 acres of land.
“Combined with the Heartwood Solar project, which is currently under construction, Heartwood Solar II represents a total investment of over $300 million,” according to Ranger Power promotional material. “The energy facilities are projected to generate over $35 million in tax revenue, providing vital funding for local schools, emergency services, infrastructure, and community programs. Additionally, the construction phase will stimulate the local economy by creating hundreds of jobs and increasing commercial activity for local businesses.”
The idea of a solar farm is not new to the city of Jonesville. One farm has already been built, and another Ranger Power project is already underway. But many residents have voiced their opposition to it.
Greg Stuchell is a Hillsdale City Council member. He said he doesn’t know anyone in favor of the project, and many have unanswered questions.
“When solar and wind and all that green energy first came out, everybody was all, ‘wow, this is exciting.’ But as time goes on, I think people are realizing these are not as clean and refined as we think they are,” said Stuchell.
The project is not happening in his jurisdiction, but he is also raising concerns about the environmental impact throughout the area.
“Would this affect our water supply? Can it affect our water supply? The other thing is, we have nice deer populations. Is it going to affect hunting? Is it going to affect the deer herd?” said Stuchell. “I think there are a lot of valid questions that need to be answered before we start throwing solar panels all over the place.”
Robert Socha, a Hillsdale resident, said it would create an eyesore in the community.
“The way that our county is, it’s aesthetics, that to maintain its country appeal. And when you drive by acres and acres of solar farms, it’s not appealing,” said Socha.
He said another concern is cost.
“I know the cost of electricity produced by either solar or wind is more expensive than traditionally powered solar plants. and the utilities have to pass that on to the customers, and it’s not right in my opinion,” said Socha.
In a statement, the company’s development manager Brady Friss said: “We’re extremely proud of our work in the community to date, including the Heartwood Solar Grant program, and look forward to continuing this work for years to come.”
“In 2023, Ranger Power partnered with the Hillsdale Community Foundation to create the Heartwood Solar Grant Program. …Heartwood Solar II is pledging further support, including an additional $240,000 in endowment funding at Heartwood Solar II commercial operations,” according to Ranger Power promotional material.
Fayette Township Supervisor Nathaniel Baker told News 10 that Ranger Power has submitted a permit for the project. But, he has no further comment at this time because they do not have enough information on the proposal.
Baker said the solar farm isn’t on the next regular business meeting agenda but is inviting residents to come voice their opinion.
The township’s next regular business meeting takes place on Jan. 12 at 7:00 pm at Jonesville High School.
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