North Michigan News

State Senator John Damoose, alongside State Representatives Parker Fairbairn and John Roth, has urged the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to halt its plan to replace over 400 acres of forest near Gaylord with solar panel installations. The lawmakers argue that the DNR should not engage in green energy projects that they believe are unreliable and unpopular.

“I think this is a terrible idea,” stated Damoose, R-Harbor Springs. He expressed concerns about the feasibility of solar energy in Northern Michigan's environment and criticized the potential destruction of 400 acres of forest for what he described as a "feel-good public relations stunt."

The pushback comes after legislative Democrats passed laws in 2023 mandating 100% clean energy by 2040. These laws grant the Michigan Public Service Commission authority over green energy project approvals, limiting local control over wind turbines and solar farms' placement.

Fairbairn, R-Harbor Springs, emphasized the need for the DNR to prioritize Michigan residents' interests over political policy initiatives. “This administration has shown blatant disregard for local control and the input of local residents," he said.

The new legislation could lead to closing natural gas plants and increasing reliance on wind and solar power. An expert analysis suggests that these changes might nearly double average monthly electric bills.

Roth, R-Interlochen, voiced his opposition to state investment in green energy at the expense of wildlife habitats. “If private companies want to invest their money in green energy, so be it," he said. "But the state should not be treating our wildlife like poker chips they can trade in exchange for solar panels.”