UP Gazette

State Reps. Greg Markkanen and Dave Prestin have urged the public to participate in upcoming opportunities to provide input on new state laws regarding wind and solar project siting. The legislation in question removes local control over large-scale projects, a move that has sparked controversy and opposition from the representatives.

Prestin, who voted against the plan, expressed his concerns over the new law's implications, stating, "The forced solar and wind siting bills added insult to injury, giving power to Lansing bureaucrats to determine if these projects go up in our back yard without our approval." He emphasized the importance of community resistance against what he views as a downstate takeover of local decision-making processes.

Similarly, Markkanen, who also opposed the legislation, criticized the plan for potentially infringing on the rights of rural communities, saying, "It’s the worst kept secret in Michigan that radical environmentalists plan to power their cities by turning rural communities into parking lots filled with windmills." He highlighted the significance of maintaining control at the local level and voiced confidence in the ability of Upper Peninsula residents to vocalize their opposition.

The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) is now facilitating "engagement sessions" to gather public feedback on the implementation of the new law. The sessions, scheduled for Thursday, March 7, and Tuesday, March 19, will address various aspects of the law, including application guidelines, fees, and the development of renewable energy ordinances. Interested individuals can access details on how to participate in the virtual meetings on the MPSC website.

With the contentious nature of the legislation and its potential impact on local communities, the call for public input from Reps. Prestin and Markkanen underscores the importance of engaging citizens in the decision-making process surrounding wind and solar project siting laws.