Despite the recent implementation of a new law on Friday, the battle for local control over siting renewable energy projects may not be settled just yet. The Democratic majority Legislature passed a law earlier this year, granting the Michigan Public Service Commission the final say in siting large solar or wind energy projects, in an effort to meet climate change goals.
While this is currently the law, some townships and counties have taken legal action against it. In addition, a group called Citizens for Local Choice, which was unsuccessful in getting an initiative on the ballot this year to keep siting authority with local governments, has announced plans to try again in 2026.
The crux of the issue boils down to two main factors: the “not in my backyard” resistance and local governments’ opposition to the state taking control of what they see as a local matter. Residents in rural areas often fear that the installation of solar panels and wind turbines will disrupt the rural character of their communities. Interestingly, many of these areas already have oil and gas wells scattered throughout.
The other issue at play is one that local governments have faced before. Over the years, the state has centralized certain aspects of government, such as sales taxes and emergency management takeovers. There has also been a push to strip local authorities of their power to determine the siting of gravel and sand mining operations. Losing yet another aspect of local control is a tough pill to swallow.
The Michigan Public Service Commission argues that it already has the authority to determine the siting of oil and gas wells, and that renewable energy projects should be treated no differently. However, the loss of local authority is a bitter pill for many to swallow. It remains to be seen how this battle will ultimately play out, but for now, the fight for local control over siting renewable energy projects continues.