A new Michigan law slated to take effect on Nov. 29 has triggered a legal battle over the right of communities to regulate renewable energy projects within their jurisdictions.
Over 70 Michigan townships and seven counties are challenging PA 233, in order to keep the state Public Service Commission (MPSC) from limiting local zoning authority over large-scale wind and solar developments.
PA 233, enacted by the state Legislature in November 2023, is a law designed to expedite the construction of windmills and solar panel farms to help keep Michigan’s renewable energy goals on track.
The municipalities appealed on Nov. 8 an October MPSC order that they claim misinterprets state law and strips local governments of the power to regulate such developments….