Events

This MSU Extension program is an opportunity for local government officials to learn about steps and considerations for planning and zoning for solar energy development.

In fall 2016, the Michigan legislature amended the Clean and Renewable Energy and Energy Waste Reduction Act (PA 295 of 2008) with passage of PA 342 of 2016 requiring electric providers to achieve a renewable energy credit portfolio of at least 15% by 2021.

Additionally, the cost of electricity from solar has dropped by nearly 75% since 2009, and is expected to fall 66% further by 2040, by some accounts.

With such events and trends, owners of large tracts of property in Michigan and local governments are seeing increased activity among solar energy developers exploring options for solar energy development. In response, Michigan State University Extension developed this training program for local government officials on planning and zoning for solar energy.

This program is an opportunity for local government officials to learn about steps and considerations for planning and zoning for solar energy development.

Program Objectives

• The Context of Solar Energy Development, including the new Michigan law and the state of the industry;
• Introduction to Types/Scales of Solar, including Michigan examples;
• Local Government Planning Approaches for Solar, with emphasis on planning for marginal lands first; and
• Zoning Tools and Techniques for Solar, including siting and feasibility concerns.

Continuing Education

Master Citizen Planners will earn 3 hours of continuing education.

Instructors

All instructors are MSU faculty/staff with professional planning experience.

Cost

$55 for Regular Registrants ($50 for Master Citizen Planners and groups of two or more from the same municipality). There is a fee of $15 for cancellations after Nov. 1. Program cost includes handouts and light refreshments. Preregistration is required and available online. Registration will not be available on-site.

REGISTER HERE