Official statements from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources or project developers

Michigan to Clear 420 Acres in Otsego County for Solar Farm Using Chinese-Made Panels, Faces Republican Opposition

Jan 4, 2025, 10:38 AM

Michigan state officials are planning to clear approximately 420 acres of state forest in Otsego County near Gaylord to make way for a new solar farm. This initiative is part of the state's strategy to meet its goal of achieving 100% clean energy by 2040. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking to lease the land to generate revenue and support natural resources management. The move has sparked controversy, with critics, including Republican lawmakers, arguing that the deforestation could lead to a net increase in greenhouse gas emissions, citing studies from Harvard University and Chinese researchers. The solar panels intended for the site are reportedly made in China, adding to the debate over the environmental and economic implications of the project. Scott Whitcomb, the director of the DNR's public lands office, has acknowledged the public's largely negative feedback on the plan, with concerns raised about the environmental impact and the suitability of Michigan's climate for solar energy production.