Legislation reversing course on a law enacted last session, moving energy permitting authority back to township boards, was reported by the House Energy Committee this week.
Background:
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- In 2023, the legislature passed, and Governor Whitmer signed, legislation giving the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) the authority to permit certain wind and solar energy projects.
- That law applies to facilities with 100 megawatts or more.
- Prior to obtaining a certificate from the MPSC, the applicants conduct a number of actions, including offering to meet with the chief elected official in each affected area and holding a public meeting in each impacted area.
- The law lays out exactly what must be included in an application for a certificate and a timeline for the application process.
Proposal:
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- House Bills 4027 and 4028 were introduced by Representative Gregory Alexander (R-Carsonville).
- The bills repeal the portion of the law that allows the MPSC certification process to preempt local zoning and regulations under certain circumstances.
- The bills were sent to the House floor for consideration.
