North Michigan News

State Reps. Greg Markkanen and Dave Prestin are urging the public to participate in upcoming opportunities to provide input on new state laws related to wind and solar project siting. The legislation in question removes local control over large-scale projects, a move that has sparked controversy and opposition.

Prestin, who voted against the law, expressed his concerns about the implications of the legislation, stating, “The energy policies eliminating our reliable energy supply, passed by the Democrat majority last year, are the most destructive initiative the Upper Peninsula has ever faced. The forced solar and wind siting bills added insult to injury, giving power to Lansing bureaucrats to determine if these projects go up in our back yard without our approval.”

Similarly, Markkanen, who also opposed the plan, criticized the potential impact on rural communities, saying, “It’s the worst kept secret in Michigan that radical environmentalists plan to power their cities by turning rural communities into parking lots filled with windmills.” He emphasized the importance of local control and raised concerns about giving decision-making authority to unelected officials in Lansing.

Despite the law being approved along partisan lines, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) is now seeking public input on its implementation through engagement sessions. The first two sessions are scheduled for Thursday, March 7, and Tuesday, March 19, from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The meetings will be held virtually via Microsoft Teams, with details on how to join available on michigan.gov/mpsc.

The MPSC has outlined various topics for discussion during the sessions, including application guidelines, fees, consultations, renewable energy ordinances, and other relevant issues. The purpose of these meetings is to gather feedback from the public and stakeholders on the practical aspects of the new law.

As the debate over wind and solar project siting continues, Markkanen and Prestin are encouraging residents to participate in the public engagement process to ensure that their voices are heard and considered in the implementation of these laws.