The claim that clean energy and agriculture are natural allies overlooks a fundamental reality: the substantial land requirement for renewable energy projects.
Michigan climate change
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan House passes climate change reform, mandating clean energy by 2040
A divided Michigan House passes legislation requiring utilities to draw 100 percent of their energy from clean sources by 2040. That’s a later timeline than environmentalists had sought — and foes say it will raise rates — but many say the reform is overdue.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan House votes to restrict local permitting of solar, wind farms
Passed along party lines, the legislation would end local governments’ authority to approve or deny projects. Proponents say the change would end local controversies and jump-start clean energy. Foes say it’s anti-farm and heavy-handed.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | Wind energy is generating new opportunities at Beal City Schools
A 136-turbine wind project in Isabella County is generating millions of dollars in revenue for the district, giving it access to the kinds of resources and amenities small rural school districts typically can’t afford.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | Untested solar and wind policies being forced on rural Michigan
Clean energy bills, aimed at combating climate change, are short on scientific research and dismissive of the rights of local residents and townships, making them deeply undemocratic.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | In Michigan, clean energy and agriculture are allies, not enemies
Clean energy opponents seek to portray wind and solar projects as an attack on rural communities. That’s not true. Renewable energy sites are helping to save farmland so families can pass properties to future generations.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan Senate approves 2040 deadline for carbon-neutral energy
Long overdue or an overreach that will increase rates? Democrats and Republicans divided on plan to require 100 percent clean energy and increase renewable energy sources in the next decade.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan House committee advances wind, solar permitting bills
The bills would shift permitting authority over large wind and solar projects from local governments to the state. They have support from environmentalists, and opposition from local government advocates.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan steps up dam removal in race against climate change
As climate change threatens to warm Michigan rivers, dam removal can drive temperatures down by several degrees overnight. An influx of state and federal money has boosted removal efforts, but advocates say more is needed.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Proposed state oversight of solar, wind pits energy needs v. rural rights
Democratic bill sponsors say local fights over renewable energy threaten Michigan’s ability to meet climate goals and deliver reliable power. But Republican lawmakers say they fear rural communities will be railroaded by the green energy transition.