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Farmland preservation acres open for solar projects

Michigan farmland enrolled in the state’s preservation program can now be used in commercial solar projects.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Michigan Department of Ag Director Gary McDowell announced this week a policy change to the Farmland and Open Space Preservation program which allows for solar development for commercial use.

There are currently 3.4 million acres of farmland enrolled in the program.  Whitmer says the placement of panels arrays needs to be consistent with the farming operations and purposes of the program while helping to meet a growing demand for renewable energy.

Sites adding solar must also meet pollinator habitat standards.  Wind turbines and cell phone towers are currently allowed on land in the program.

The Michigan Agri-Business Association, Michigan Environmental Council, and Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council support the change.