Iosco Township Votes Against DTE Energy’s Solar Project Proposal

Residents in Iosco Township, Michigan, celebrated a significant decision on December 18, 2023, as local officials voted unanimously to reject a proposal from DTE Energy for a solar energy project covering over 1,800 acres, or nearly 3 square miles. The decision followed strong community opposition, with nearly 200 residents attending the meeting at the Alverson Center for Performing Arts in Fowlerville.

The proposal sought to conditionally rezone agricultural land for two solar districts. Specifically, the southern portion includes approximately 966 acres, while the western portion consists of about 909 acres. Although some of the southern area had been designated for solar development, DTE aimed to expand beyond that initial zoning. While the township’s denial marks a setback for DTE, the utility has the option to appeal to state regulators at the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC).

Many residents voiced their concerns regarding the potential impacts of the solar project on their community. Resident Jim Ratke, who has lived in the township for about 45 years, expressed satisfaction with the board’s decision. “That’s a no brainer, because you have all the people saying no, they don’t want it,” he stated, emphasizing the community’s collective voice.

Concerns about future development were echoed by resident Bob Gray, who warned that approving DTE’s request could set a precedent for further industrial projects in the area. “If you open the door for one, then you set a precedent for the next time,” Gray cautioned. The opposition included worries about the impact on property values, local wildlife, and the overall quality of life in the township.

The vote saw all four present township board members opposing the rezoning, with Amanda Bonneville, the township treasurer, recusing herself due to a potential conflict of interest. Township Supervisor Joe Parker stated that the decision was influenced by the clear opposition from residents. “The people made it clear what they wanted. Ultimately, they elected us. We need to listen and we did,” Parker affirmed.

DTE Energy’s director of renewable energy development, Michael Rivet, addressed the board prior to the vote, highlighting the company’s efforts to engage with the community over the past three years. He noted that the planning commission had recommended approval of the proposal, citing the efforts made to accommodate local concerns. Rivet emphasized that the approval of both sections would be necessary for the project to proceed.

The township’s discussions about the solar project highlight ongoing tensions between local governments and energy developers in Michigan. In a related move, officials in Iosco Township adopted a compatible renewable energy ordinance (CREO) on October 16, 2023. This ordinance aims to enhance local control over upcoming utility-scale renewable energy projects, aligning township regulations with state laws that allow developers to bypass local approvals under certain conditions.

As Iosco Township navigates the complexities of energy development, the rejection of DTE Energy’s proposal underscores the community’s strong desire to maintain control over its agricultural landscape and future development. The outcome of this decision may serve as a critical chapter in the broader conversation about renewable energy projects across Michigan.

With DTE Energy now weighing its options, including a potential appeal to the MPSC or resubmitting a revised proposal, the next steps in this unfolding story will be closely watched by residents and officials alike.