Michigan's green energy plans could send the state into darkness

Keeping it Real with Dave Bondy, Sunday January 12, 2025

Take a look at my Keeping it Real show from Sunday, January 12, 2025.

I explored Michigan's push to rely heavily on wind and solar power. Jason shared eye-opening insights about how this plan could lead to significant challenges, potentially leaving Michigan in the dark. I also uncovered new details about a controversial solar proposal in Iosco Township.

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WATCH THE ENTIRE SHOW:

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200,000 solar panels taking over farmland and forests in Michigan

As Michigan pushes toward a greener energy future, a proposed solar project near Gaylord has raised concerns about the vast amount of land required to meet the state's renewable energy goals.

The plan involves converting a 420-acre parcel into a solar farm, which, according to local estimates, is equivalent to 105 Walmart parking lots. "If you scale that up to 1,000 acres, you're looking at 250 more parking lots. That’s a total of 355 Walmart parking lots worth of land just in this area," explained one observer, illustrating the project’s scale.

Click here to get Jason’s Substack.

Jason Hayes, director of environmental policy at the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, highlighted the broader implications. "This is just the start. To meet these renewable energy targets, Michigan would need to replicate this kind of development across the state," Hayes said. "We’re talking about replacing large tracts of farmland and open space with solar panels and wind turbines. The impact on communities and local economies could be significant."

Hayes also pointed to testimony from Daniel Scripps, chair of the Michigan Public Service Commission, who told lawmakers last year that achieving the state’s renewable energy goals could require as much as 209,000 acres of land. "Even that figure feels like it might be on the low side," Hayes said. "If 420 acres is already causing disruption, imagine what 209,000 acres—or potentially more—would mean for Michigan's landscape."

The solar initiative is part of Michigan's broader strategy to transition to renewable energy sources like wind and solar. While proponents emphasize the environmental benefits, critics, including Hayes, warn about unintended consequences. "This plan raises serious questions about whether we’re trading one environmental impact for another," he said.

The debate underscores the complexities of balancing environmental goals with land use and community concerns as Michigan advances its clean energy ambitions.