iminor@dailypress.net
ESCANABA TOWNSHIP Plans for a large-scale solar generation facility in Escanaba Township are on hold following a decisions by the township’s board to impose a moratorium on large solar generation facilities.
The decision was made through an ordinance passed by the board at a special meeting, Jan. 25. However, attendance at the virtually-held special meeting was low because notice for the meeting was only posted on the township’s website and at the hall the day prior to the meeting, which was a Sunday.
Both board and planning commission meetings with discussions of solar in the township have been heavily attended and often heated, with in-person meetings drawing well over 150 residents prior to the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to better inform the public of the board’s decision to enact the moratorium, the township’s planning commission announced the board’s actions during its regular meeting Monday, Feb. 1.
iminor@dailypress.net
ESCANABA TOWNSHIP A controversial solar farm project planned for Escanaba Township has been scaled back once again, but even with the changes, the Escanaba Township Board was hesitant to say they supported the development within the community.
“Going forward, we hope to be able to work with the planning commission and the township board to be able to develop the project in a way that is compatible with the aesthetics and the intentions of the planning commission and the board,” said Peter Moritzburke, of Orion Renewable Energy.
In 2019, the township board approved a stand-alone solar ordinance that would have allowed Orion Renewable Energy Group to build a large-scale solar farm in the township. However, it was later determined that the ordinance was insufficient for the development to move forward and the township would need instead to approve an amendment to the township’s zoning ordinance if the project were to proceed.
Many communities have fought back against wind developers, opening the door for alternative sources, including solar energy.
While many areas have been explored for potential solar projects, a California firm is considering such a project in northern Lapeer County.
Officials in Goodland Township, north of Imlay City are learning of a proposed 100-megawatt solar farm that could mean as many as 200 new jobs during the construction phase, if it is approved.
The location of the proposed site is in the area of Kohler Road and Bowers Road with the developer currently in the process of securing leases.
Officials say as an incentive, farmers who sign a lease with the company will receive income for 30 years when the project is complete, an agreement that is similar to the agreement wind companies have with farmers who have turbines on their property.