Michigan Localities Fight to Keep Zoning Control Over Large Wind and Solar Developments

Townships and counties appeal a state order that they say limits their power to regulate renewable energy projects as Michigan is aiming for carbon neutrality.

The Amazon Fort Powhatan solar farm in Disputanta, Va., on Aug. 19, 2022. Drew Angerer/Getty Images

A new Michigan law slated to take effect on Nov. 29 has triggered a legal battle over the right of communities to regulate renewable energy projects within their jurisdictions.

Over 70 Michigan townships and seven counties are challenging PA 233, in order to keep the state Public Service Commission (MPSC) from limiting local zoning authority over large-scale wind and solar developments.