Proposals from state Rep. Greg Alexander that reaffirm local input and authority on large-scale energy siting projects were advanced today by the Michigan House.

“Today is a big win for local control and people who deserve to have their voices heard,” said Alexander, of Carsonville. “This vote was not a statement about green energy or whether communities should pursue these projects. Three counties I represent in the House contain almost 60 percent of Michigan’s wind turbines. This vote is about empowering local communities and their elected officials to make these decisions based on what’s best for their communities and what input they’re hearing from residents regarding what they want in their communities. Last term, we moved away from that with a reckless state takeover on energy siting. These bills reinstall critical protections for local governments and officials.”

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 authority on wind and solar siting. Local zoning ordinances can be bypassed with a project application going directly to the MPSC for a certificate of approval to begin construction. The MPSC is a three-member commission of governor-appointed officials that serve six-year terms.

Michigan currently has about 17,000 acres occupied by wind and solar operations, and rural areas across the state are expected to bear the brunt of expanded siting going forward.

HBs 4027-28 now move to the Senate for consideration.

PHOTO INFORMATION: State Rep. Greg Alexander speaks on House Bills 4027-28 on Wednesday, April 30 at the state Capitol in Lansing.