ESCANABA TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WLUC) – Escanaba Township residents had the chance to voice their opinion on a proposed solar farm project in the township.
Bonnie Hakkola was one of many who attended the Escanaba Township Board Monday night to hear a presentation from DTE officials about the viability of a 150-megawatt solar farm in the township.
“We need to keep in mind what’s important for our land and our country and longevity and our grandchildren- that’s why I’m here,” Hakkola said.
DTE Senior Project Site Manager Theresa Hannath says she wants to hear concerns surrounding the project.
“We understand that this is a contentious subject and that people on all sides of this issue care deeply about their community, their property rights and the future of the township. Those concerns deserve to be heard and respected,” Hannath said.
The board was not presented with a formal application for approval. Instead, Hannath spoke to collaborative efforts with the community.
“Our purpose tonight is to better understand how the township wishes us to proceed, especially in light of the recent court appeals, PA 233 decision, and the evolving legal framework surrounding renewable energy and land use in Michigan,” Hannath said.
Public Act 233 creates a statewide approval process for certain utility-scale renewable energy projects. It authorizes the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) to approve or deny projects in cases where local governments have not adopted a “compatible renewable energy ordinance” (CREO). This allows developers to bypass community approval and directly petition the state for utility-scale solar construction.
Hakkola and other residents voiced concerns that included transparency and clear communication with the community.
“There’s a real big concern about cracking the bedrock and then contamination goes into our aquifers,” Hakkola said.
The board did not make a final decision. The next township board meeting is scheduled for June 8.
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