LANSING, Mich. (WJRT) – Bills aiming to restore local control over large-scale renewable energy projects advanced in the House Energy Committee on Wednesday.

State Rep. Greg Alexander of Carsonville in Sanilac County introduced House Bills 4027 and 4028 to overturn laws passed in 2023, when Democrats controlled the Michigan Legislature.

The laws allow the unelected Michigan Public Service Commission to bypass planning and zoning approval from local governmental bodies in determining locations for renewable energy projects statewide.

“These laws will change the entire landscape of the region,” Alexander said.

He said local government officials and residents know their areas the best, so they should be empowered to decide how their community develops.

The Thumb region already is home to 60% of Michigan’s wind turbines. Alexander said his bills do not oppose renewable energy but rather advocate for community decision-making.

The House Energy Committee heard almost 90 minutes of testimony, largely in support of Alexander’s bills. The legislation now moves to the full House for consideration.

If approved by the full House, the bills would go to the Democrat-led Senate for consideration.

Politics