School districts to see more clean and electric buses

by orionontv | May 30, 2024 | Environmental

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 30, 2024
Jeff Johnston, EGLE Public Information Officer, [email protected], 517-231-9304

Michigan school districts to see more clean and electric school buses with $24M investment from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

Latest round of EPA’s Clean School Bus Program supports purchases by 27 Michigan public schools and school districts

A cool hundred: That’s how many clean-powered school buses are soon to join Michigan public schools’ fleets with help from newly announced federal investments.

The Biden-Harris Administration has announced the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program (CSBP) rebate competition, funded by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. Michigan received $23.98 million out of nearly $900 million awarded nationwide.

The rebates will help 27 selected schools and districts in Michigan (listed below) buy 97 buses powered by electricity and three powered by propane.

“Prior to the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Michigan had just 17 electric school buses,” EGLE Director Phil Roos said. “I applaud the Biden Administration and our hardworking congressional delegation for investing in electric school buses, improving air quality, allowing schools to invest in the classroom, and helping us meet the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan. The EPA’s Clean School Bus program and investments from Governor Gretchen Whitmer have accelerated Michigan’s transition to a clean energy future. Today, more than 200 clean-powered school buses are on the road or arriving soon in Michigan. Let’s keep working together to protect the state’s most precious resources, our children, from harmful air pollution.”

Michigan has nearly 17,000 buses that transport more than 800,000 students each school year. Investments in clean school buses will improve air quality for students and communities; lower costs for schools, allowing more dollars to flow to the classroom; and accelerate the transition to cleaner mobility solutions and the state’s progress toward the MI Healthy Climate Plan.

“These Bipartisan Infrastructure Law dollars will help 27 school districts purchase new electric and clean school buses, providing a safer and cleaner ride to school for students while reducing costs for schools, allowing them to put dollars back into the classroom,” said Zachary Kolodin, Michigan’s chief infrastructure officer and director of the Michigan Infrastructure Office. “By investing in clean school buses, we’re not only upgrading our transportation systems; we’re improving air quality by reducing diesel fumes, safeguarding the health of students and communities across the state.”

The announcement Wednesday, May 29, continues progress begun in 2019, when the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) awarded a $4.2 million Fuel Transformation Program grant toward the purchase of Michigan’s first 17 electric school buses and charging stations for seven pioneering school districts across the state.

In November 2022, the EPA invested $54 million from the CSBP rebate competition toward 138 new electric school buses and infrastructure for 25 Michigan school districts, from Southeast Michigan to the Upper Peninsula.

In July 2023, Governor Whitmer’s bipartisan fiscal year 2024 state budget also included $125 million to help school systems transition to clean buses, with a focus on the communities that need them most.

In January 2024, another $5.93 million in grants was announced to buy 15 clean-powered school buses apiece for Detroit, Lansing, and Pontiac public school systems. In addition, funding through third-party multistate grantees was expected to purchase 10 buses in Flint; five in Redford Union No. 1 near Detroit; and two each in Mason County, Brimley, and the West Shore Educational Service District in Ludington.

In the current funding round, the EPA selected approximately 530 school districts in 47 states, Washington, D.C., and several tribes and U.S. territories to receive nearly $900 million in funds.

“President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With today’s latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation’s school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo – our kids – saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time.”

Clean School Bus Program awardees

The following Michigan public schools and districts received $23.98 million in rebate funding for 100 buses, powered by electricity except as noted:

Allen Park: $1.04 million for five buses.
Anchor Bay: $600,000 for three buses.
Ann Arbor: $800,000 for four buses.
Au Gres-Sims: $345,000 for one bus.
Brown City: $345,000 for one bus.
Cass City: $690,000 for two buses.
Chippewa Valley in Clinton Township: $400,000 for two buses.
Comstock: $1.04 million for three buses.
The Dearborn Academy: $1.04 million for three buses.
Grand Rapids: $5.18 million for 15 buses.
Gwinn Area: $35,000 for one propane bus.
Kent Intermediate: $3.08 million for 15 buses.
Kentwood: $800,000 for four buses.
Lansing: $1.73 million for five buses.
Ludington Area: $1.2 million for six buses.
Northville: $200,000 for one bus.
Pellston: $200,000 for one bus.
Riverview: $50,000 for two propane buses.
Saline Area: $600,000 for three buses.
Southfield: $220,000 for one bus.
Stockbridge: $800,000 for four buses.
Three Rivers: $400,000 for two buses.
Traverse City Area: $200,000 for one bus.
Trenton: $2 million for 10 buses.
Troy: $400,000 for two buses.
Vanderbilt Area: $200,000 for one bus.
Woodhaven-Brownstown: $400,000 for two buses.

About the EPA Clean School Bus Program

President Biden’s 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provided an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The CSBP funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared with diesel predecessors.

Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and tribal communities. Phasing out older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near bus loading areas, as well as in the communities through which the buses drive each day.

The CSBP will save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses while freeing up needed resources for schools. The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis.

The latest funding builds on nearly $2 billion invested through 2022 Rebates and 2023 Grants. The EPA continues to review selected applications and may make additional awards in the current round.

Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and tribal communities comprise about 45% of the newest selected projects and will receive approximately 67% of the total funding in line with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative to deliver at least 40% of overall benefits from certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution.

The EPA is also partnering with the federal Joint Office of Energy and Department of Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.

The EPA’s 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program is accepting applications through July 25, offering up to $932 million in available grant funding and anticipating approximately 70% of the available funding to help pay for new, zero-emissions Class 6 or 7 school buses. School districts are encouraged to apply for current and future funding rounds if they weren’t selected or did not apply for the 2023 program.

View the full list of Clean School Bus Program awards.

Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week, June 1-9

by orionontv | May 30, 2024 | Environmental

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 30, 2024
Jeff Johnston, EGLE Public Information Officer, [email protected], 517-231-9304
Trevor Layton, SEMCOG Communications Manager, [email protected], 313-580-6195

Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week, June 1-9, celebrates water-wellness connection

EGLE and partners focus on how Michiganders engage with the water wonderland around us

Whether we’re drinking from the tap or drinking in a lake view, water and wellness go hand in hand in Michigan.

That’s the message of this year’s Michigan Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week (GLFWW), Saturday, June 1-Sunday, June 9. The annual dedication by Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and partners will focus on events and resources related to physical, mental, and spiritual wellness as a result of connecting with water, as well as continuing to dive into enjoyment, recreation, appreciation, stewardship, and protection of the Great Lakes, their environment, and their communities.

“Michigan is home to 21% of the world’s fresh surface water and defined by the Great Lakes,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “During Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week, let’s recommit ourselves to protecting our waters, which are critical to our state’s economy and the future of our planet and people. Together, we can be good stewards of our extraordinary natural resources and build a brighter future for our kids.”

Governor Whitmer in 2020 commissioned the MI Healthy Climate Plan as a broad road map to a prosperous, clean energy future for Michigan. The plan includes a provision, dubbed “30 by 30,” to protect 30% of state land and water by 2030 to preserve recreational access and biodiversity, as well as to naturally absorb greenhouse gas emissions.

Michigan boasts more than 3,200 miles of coastline along four Great Lakes, 11,000 inland lakes and ponds, 36,000 miles of rivers and streams, and enough groundwater to fill Lake Michigan over again. More than 30 million people in the U.S. and Canada rely on the Great Lakes for their drinking water.

EGLE and its Office of the Great Lakes (OGL) partner with the (DNR) and the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) to sponsor GLFWW.

The week will highlight ways everyone can engage with Michigan waters for their well-being: through responsible exploration and enjoyment, learning about freshwater systems and how our actions affect them, and prepping for rewarding careers in Michigan’s water-centered blue economy.

“I know there are so many Michiganders who, like me, find fulfillment in the beauty and bounty of our lakes, rivers, and streams and appreciate a week to reflect on their value in our lives,” EGLE Director Phil Roos said. “When we bike, walk, and canoe on and along Michigan waters, we understand that these great resources bring not only great responsibilities but great rewards.”

“The Great Lakes and fresh water are tremendous and inseparable natural attributes that define Michigan,” DNR Director Scott Bowen said. “There are countless benefits realized every day from these precious resources. The need to care responsibly for them and conserve them cannot be overstated.”

“There is only One Water; there is no substitute for the enrichment, enjoyment, and tranquility that it brings to our lives,” SEMCOG Executive Director Amy O’Leary said. “SEMCOG is proud to partner with the Office of the Great Lakes this Great Lakes and Freshwater Week to celebrate the wellness benefits of access to fresh water in Southeast Michigan and across the whole state. We also celebrate and honor all the water champions, whose stewardship is making a huge difference in the health and wellness of our lakes, rivers, and streams.”

This year’s theme encourages Michiganders to consider what the Great Lakes and fresh waters mean to them personally and for their mental and physical wellness. EGLE invites visitors to use the hashtag #MIGreatLakesWeek to share photos and reflections on social media, or to share them on EGLE’s Facebook page.

Michiganders also may go fishing or take to the trails for free Saturday and Sunday, June 8-9. On these two days, the DNR will waive the need for a fishing license, off-road vehicle license, trail permit, and the Recreation Passport requirement for admission to Michigan state parks and boating access sites.

Reading for pleasure and knowledge is another way to enjoy a water-wellness connection, and local libraries offer plenty of “beach reads” (or anywhere reads) focused on Michigan waters.

The Library of the Great Lakes and partners have selected two books – “The Water Walker” by Joanne Robertson for children and “The Best Part of Us” by Sally Cole-Misch for adults – as choices for this year’s first-ever Great Lakes, Great Read program.

Meanwhile, “Adventure Begins at Your Library!™” where written lake adventures abound for readers of all ages. The Library of Michigan’s searchable Read Michigan BiblioBoard has a list of 113 eBooks related to the Great Lakes – all part of the state library’s Michigan Notable Books selections. The library suggests hashtags #MiLibraries and #MiSummerReading for social posts about your reading lists.

And there’s always EGLE’s inviting and information-packed 2023 Michigan State of the Great Lakes Report to curl up with.

Details about GLFWW are available on the OGL’s Stewarding the Great Lakes webpage, including links to local events, videos, educational resources on topics such as invasive species identification and proper disposal of old medications, and information on how to volunteer with the Michigan Clean Water Corps. Among the many ways to participate:

Enjoy the outdoors in and around Michigan waterways safely and sustainably by following tips for responsible recreation.

Tap into SEMCOG’s One Water campaign, developed in partnership with the Great Lakes Water Authority to build public awareness and mutual shared responsibility for water resources. The campaign runs June 1-9.

Virtually attend a water webinar:
- Join an EGLE webinar at 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 4, titled “Tribal Wisdom on Nibi and Ecosystems: Manoomin and the Circle of Life,” to learn about the importance of water (Nibi) and wild rice (Manoomin), which hold cultural and ecological significance for the Ojibwe and Anishinaabe tribes.
- Emily Finnell, Great Lakes senior advisor and strategist with the Office of the Great Lakes, will moderate a webinar from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, June 6, titled “Fostering Connections to Michigan’s Water Wonderland for Wellness and Stewardship.” Finnell will be joined by panelists Mike Shoreman, consultant, keynote speaker, author, and filmmaker; psychologist Dr. Michael Comer; Dr. Debra Pinals, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services medical director for behavioral health and forensic programs; and Tim Novak, trails section chief with the Parks and Recreation Division of the DNR. Participants will discuss how time spent on and near water can improve wellness, as well as available resources and efforts to improve mental health and increase access to the Great Lakes and Michigan’s lakes, rivers, and streams for people of all abilities.
- Watch a recorded SEMCOG webinar titled “Utilizing the One Water Campaign in Your Community,” which was held May 22. The webinar provides valuable insights into how local governments can educate residents about Southeast Michigan’s water resources through the One Water campaign. Find the link on SEMCOG’s One Water page.
- Check out more water-related webinars – past and future – on EGLE’s Webinar Series and Past Events and Recorded Webinars webpages.
Engage with EGLE, DNR, and SEMCOG on social media for news, information, and insights into water-wellness connections (#MIGreatLakesWeek).
Join in exploring more about water resources and quality by checking out SEMCOG’s social media pages daily during GLFWW for water-related trivia.
Teachers, explore the From Students to Stewards toolkit for place-based educational resources that will instill a desire to learn about water resources and protect our lakes and streams.
Public officials, check the Michigan Municipal League Foundation’s MI Water Navigator website as a guide to navigating infrastructure funding opportunities.

Summer Gasoline Rules Take Effect on Saturday

by orionontv | May 28, 2024 | Environmental

For immediate release: May 28, 2024
Media contact: Chelsea Lewis-Parisio, 517-331-1151

Reminder: Summer Gasoline Rules Take Effect on Saturday, June 1 in Southeast Michigan

LANSING, MI – Ozone monitoring will return to eight counties in Southeast Michigan as extra measures are implemented to lower smog levels in the area. Effective Saturday, June 1, 2024, Lenawee, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties must only sell or dispense gas that does not exceed 7.0 pounds per square inch vapor pressure.

The summer gasoline program was introduced in 1996 due to monitored violations of the National Ambient Air Quality for ozone in the Detroit area, as outlined in the EPA’s Clean Air Act. Enforcing the low-RVP requirement by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development ensures Michigan continues to receive federal highway funding dollars.

“Governor Whitmer has taken bold actions to protect Michigan’s environment, which we echo at MDARD,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “Our department is committed to protecting Michigan’s environment as our industry continues to implement climate-smart practices focused on combating climate change in Michigan.”

MDARD, as part of its duties under Michigan’s Motor Fuel Quality Act, Public Act 44 of 1984, is charged with enforcing ozone protection measures and assuring the quality of the gasoline being dispensed in the state.

“Summer formula gasoline increases fuel efficiency and helps prevent smog-causing compounds from being released into the atmosphere,” said Craig VanBuren, Laboratory and Consumer Protection Bureau Director. “MDARD inspectors will conduct on-site testing during the summer gas season, which runs from June 1 to September 15.”

Anyone who suspects problems at the pump is encouraged to call MDARD’s 24-hour hotline for reporting complaints, 1-800-MDA-FUEL (1-800-632-3835). For information on gasoline, please visit: MDARD – Gasoline Information – michigan.gov

For additional information on MDARD’s Weights and Measures Program, please visit: MDARD – Weights and Measures (michigan.gov)

Tips to stay healthy during poor air quality days

by orionontv | May 21, 2024 | Environmental

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 21, 2024

CONTACT: Chelsea Wuth, 517-241-2112, [email protected]

MDHHS offers tips to stay healthy during poor air quality days

LANSING, Mich. – As the 2024 North American wildfire season continues and warmer weather increases the risk of higher ozone levels, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is providing Michigan residents steps to take to protect themselves from risks related to poor air quality.

“Last summer, Michigan experienced unique levels of poor air quality due to smoke from neighboring Canadian wildfires,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “This year, in the event that wildfire smoke reaches Michigan again, we urge residents to be proactive in checking the Air Quality Index online regularly to determine if there are any actions they should take. Other than the risk of wildfire smoke, it is still helpful to monitor the Air Quality Index for poor air quality due to other hazards such as ozone.”

The Air Quality Index (AQI), which can be found on the AirNow website, is a color-coded way for residents to see what the levels of some types of air pollution are in their area. Higher AQI values indicate there is a higher concentration of pollutants in the air and a need for Michiganders to take steps to protect their health.

Residents can also sign up for alerts through the EnviroFlash system. This subscriber system allows you to choose the area you would like to get alerts for, and it will send them directly to your email or through a text message.

Before a wildfire smoke event, MDHHS recommends you:

Familiarize yourself with your forced air HVAC system or your window air conditioning unit. If it has a fresh air intake or outdoor air damper, you will need to close it during a smoke event.
Ensure you have replacement air filters that are rated MERV-13 or higher.
Consider purchasing a portable air cleaner. If you do not have one, you can make a do-it-yourself air filter.
Help neighbors and family members make a plan for possible wildfire smoke.
If you have asthma or other respiratory illnesses, heart disease, diabetes or another health condition that may make you more sensitive to wildfire smoke, talk to your health care provider ahead of time to make a plan.
Children under the age of 18, pregnant people, outdoor workers and older people (age 60+) are also more at risk. Talk to your health care provider ahead of time to make a plan.
Check your local fire risk and read tips from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for preventing wildfires in Michigan.

During a poor air quality day, take action to protect your health based on the AQI Index. Some recommendations may include:

Reduce the time you are active outdoors.
Consider less intense activities that require less physical exertion.
If ozone levels are unhealthy, schedule outdoor activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
In the event of wildfire smoke, avoid activities that create more fine particles indoors, including smoking cigarettes; using gas, propane or wood-burning stoves and furnaces; frying or broiling food; and burning candles or incense.
In the event of wildfire smoke, create a clean air room. If you can’t stay cool at home, the electricity goes out or too much smoke is still getting in your home, it may be best to seek shelter elsewhere. Call Michigan 211 information on cooling centers.

For additional guidance on protecting your health during poor air quality visit the MDHHS Health and Wildfire webpage.

EGLE: Septic Replacement Loan Program

by orionontv | May 21, 2024 | Environmental

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 21, 2024
Jeff Johnston, EGLE Public Information Officer, [email protected], 517-231-9304
Lauren Detwiler, VVK PR + Creative, [email protected], 248-884-1421
Anne Mitchell, SRLP Manager, [email protected], 517-914-4254

EGLE and Michigan Saves launch Septic Replacement Loan Program

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has partnered with Michigan Saves, the nation’s first nonprofit green bank, to offer financing for the replacement of failing or near-failing septic systems through the Septic Replacement Loan Program (SRLP). The program provides low-interest financing options for loans up to $50,000 to Michigan homeowners looking to replace their septic systems.

“A working septic system is an essential part of a home,” said Anne Mitchell, Septic Replacement Loan Program Manager at EGLE. “According to a 2024 Bankrate survey, 56% of Americans struggle to cover a $1,000 emergency, so we’re thrilled to offer this financial benefit to anyone facing the daunting task of replacing a failing septic system.”

A failing septic system can back up wastewater into homes, posing serious health risks. Failing septic systems discharge untreated wastewater, posing environmental risks such as the contamination of surface water and drinking water resources. This poses a significant health risk, especially to children who may come into contact with dangerous bacteria and viruses. To address this issue, the SRLP offers affordable loan options to homeowners to help them overcome the unexpected financial burden of septic system replacement.

The Michigan Legislature has allocated $35 million to EGLE’s Onsite Wastewater Management Unit for the development and implementation of the statewide program. EGLE has partnered with Michigan Saves to develop and manage the SRLP. This collaboration ensures that the program adheres to EGLE’s program minimum standards, assuring that supported septic systems are evaluated, designed, and installed to be protective of both public and environmental health.

“Michigan Saves is honored to be selected to manage the Septic Replacement Loan Program in collaboration with our partners at EGLE,” said Chanell Scott Contreras, president and CEO of Michigan Saves. “With the launch of income-qualified loans, we’re ensuring the process of replacing failing septic systems becomes more equitable, providing financial support where it’s needed most and leveling the playing field for all Michigan families.”

The SRLP is divided into two tiers: income-based financing (Tier One) and market-based loans (Tier Two). Loans will range up to $30,000 per project for Tier One and up to $50,000 per project for Tier Two, with rates, terms, and loan amounts varying. To be eligible for the program, septic systems must be permitted by the local health department in accordance with EGLE’s program minimum standards and be installed by a Michigan Saves authorized septic installation contractor.

Through the initiative, EGLE and Michigan Saves aim to protect Michigan’s water resources and safeguard the well-being of its residents. They are committed to ensuring all Michigan homeowners have access to safe and reliable septic systems.

For more information about the SRLP, to find a Michigan Saves authorized contractor, and to begin the financing process for septic system replacement, please visit MichiganSaves.org/Septic/.

To stay up to date on other EGLE news, follow us at Michigan.gov/MIEnvironment.

State wins $1.9 million federal award

by orionontv | Apr 29, 2024 | Environmental

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 26, 2024
Jeff Johnston, EGLE Public Information Officer, [email protected], 517-231-9304

State wins $1.9 million federal award to support local renewable energy planning and deployment

EGLE to launch the Michigan Renewable Energy Academy to provide community support

Michigan is set to launch the Michigan Renewable Energy Academy (REA) with new resources from President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act. The State will receive $1.9 million from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)’s Renewable Energy Siting through Technical Engagement and Planning (R-STEP) program to improve planning, siting, and permitting processes for large-scale renewable energy facilities.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) will lead the REA in partnership with the University of Michigan’s Graham Sustainability Institute, Michigan State University Extension, 5 Lakes Energy, and the Michigan Association of Planning.

“This investment from the U.S. Department of Energy is another tool to help Michigan communities continue to build out renewable energy at the scope and scale necessary to meet the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan, the state’s climate action roadmap,” said EGLE Director Phil Roos. “EGLE’s Renewable Energy Academy will be a one-stop-shop where communities can receive technical assistance and support as they pursue more sustainable, clean energy resources.”

The academy will be a community-centered resource for expertise in renewable energy siting, providing technical aid at no out-of-pocket cost to Michigan communities. The program will prioritize local participation and capacity building, especially to underserved communities, and help local and tribal governments navigate the complexities and harness the benefits of hosting renewable energy facilities.

“Clean wind and solar energy and storage systems are keys to a climate-healthy future for our state and world,” said Liz Browne, director of EGLE’s Materials Management Division. “EGLE and its partners in the Michigan REA are ready to offer guidance and expertise to communities for renewable energy planning and siting.”

Nationally, seven states will share a total of $10 million through R-STEP to develop and expand statewide initiatives comparable to the REA. These collaboratives will bring together stakeholders from all perspectives in the energy planning process: state and regional agencies, universities, developers, technical experts, public service commissions, farmers, unions, tribes, community organizations, and others. Learn more online about the selected state-based collaboratives, including the full list of partners.

The DOE also announced it will open a second round of the program with up to $12 million available for states.

In Michigan, R-STEP dollars will fund a consolidation of all resources, services, and experts relevant to energy planning and zoning into the one-stop shop with the REA.

These R-STEP dollars complement existing EGLE efforts to support communities in playing a role in the clean energy transition and helping Michigan meet the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan, including the Catalyst Communities program and the recently announced Renewable Ready Communities Award funding opportunity.

Through a grant from EGLE, the University of Michigan’s Graham Sustainability Institute – one of the state’s partners on the REA – already is promoting a menu of offerings and services for communities that includes an introduction to renewables planning and zoning for elected and appointed officials, a series of mini-workshops on zoning for principal- and accessory-use wind and solar, tours of renewable energy sites, individualized presentations and workshops for township and county officials with no out-of-pocket cost, no-charge reviews of zoning ordinances, and more.

To meet the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan and recently enacted laws that require 100% renewable energy by 2040, removing barriers to rapid renewable deployment is critical. Enabling large-scale renewable energy projects can unlock opportunities for community wealth-building, create good-paying jobs and support workforce development, increase grid resilience and energy independence, and support electricity bill savings, especially in rural or underserved communities.

R-STEP is funded by the DOE’s Solar Energy Technologies Office and Wind Energy Technologies Office. The DOE website also includes more information about large-scale renewable energy siting.

Learn more about renewable energy initiatives in Michigan on EGLE’s Renewable Energy webpage.

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