Proposed solar project could convert over 800 acres of farmland in rural Michigan
Residents, officials and developers weigh economic benefits against local concerns
INGERSOLL TOWNSHIP, Mich. — A proposed large-scale solar development in Midland County is drawing mixed reactions from residents, energy officials and local leaders, highlighting a broader debate over renewable energy and land use in rural Michigan.
The project, proposed by DTE Energy, would span hundreds of acres of privately owned farmland in Ingersoll Township, a largely rural area just south of Midland known for crops such as corn, soybeans and sugar beets. Estimates discussed range from roughly 600 acres of fenced solar panels to about 800 acres leased overall, potentially affecting a significant portion of the township.
DTE says the project could generate up to 129 megawatts of power, enough to supply electricity to tens of thousands of homes under optimal conditions. The company also states the development would bring millions of dollars in tax revenue over time, supporting schools, emergency services and local infrastructure while contributing to Michigan’s transition to cleaner energy.
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Local officials have echoed those potential benefits in past discussions, pointing to economic development opportunities and additional funding for the community.
Below is statement from DTE. Click here to learn more about what they say.
But not all residents are convinced.
Steven, an Ingersoll Township resident who spoke in a recent interview, said the issue goes beyond aesthetics and centers on long-term impacts to the community and agricultural economy.
“This is primarily farmland and rural homes,” he said, describing the area as a traditional farming region with little industrial development.
He and others worry the project could alter the character of the township and potentially affect nearby property values. Steven pointed to comparisons with other Michigan counties that have embraced large renewable projects, claiming those areas have seen declines in property values, though such claims are debated and not universally supported by data.
Supporters of the project argue that the land involved is privately owned and that farmers have the right to lease their property for solar development, especially as agriculture faces economic pressures.
Steven acknowledged that perspective, noting many landowners may see solar leases as a financial opportunity.
“It’s not personal,” he said. “Farmers are trying to protect their land and make a living.”
Still, he believes zoning rules exist to balance individual property rights with broader community interests, arguing that large-scale solar installations resemble industrial uses not traditionally permitted in agricultural zones.
Another concern raised by opponents involves the long-term viability of solar infrastructure and whether adequate safeguards exist to ensure sites are restored after their lifespan. Questions have also been raised about whether financial assurances, such as decommissioning funds, will be sufficient decades into the future.
Energy policy is also part of the debate.
Critics, including some analysts at organizations like the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, argue that expanding wind and solar could increase electricity costs due to the need for backup generation when weather conditions limit production. Supporters of renewable energy counter that diversifying energy sources improves long-term sustainability and reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
The discussion reflects a broader statewide and national conversation about how to balance energy needs, environmental goals and local control.
A planning commission meeting on the proposal is expected to draw significant public turnout, with the venue moved to a larger location to accommodate residents. If approved at that level, the project would move to the township board for further consideration.
For now, the future of the solar development remains uncertain, with both sides making their case as the community weighs economic opportunity against concerns about long-term impact.
This pisses me off. We are walking into a super huge depression this year. We are already starting to see food shortages. So, it they destroy 1400 acres for something that WILL NOT work in Michigan how are people going to eat? Are they going to feast on solar panels? This land will never be able to be used again for food. We are going to have to rely on the neighbors around us for food, medical, and other things that come up. I sure hope y'all know your neighbors and their capabilities. This is not going to be a race thing. We are ALL going to have to band together in small communities to keep outsiders out, to prevent break-ins and theft of food and other supplies. Money is going to disappear. They are going to collect and burn paper money. Pennies are already gone. I don't know if any of you save change it may be all you have left for a while. The is the Saginaw River Valley they want to build in. There is not enough sun in the winter months to sustain solar in Michigan. Solar is for southern states. Not northern states and if you bought into this you are absolutely crazy. I grew up in the Flint River Valley. In 1967, my dad and grandfather put solar panels on the south side of our brand new house. Guess what guys, they never turned on in the winter, but come summer they were awful. They didn't have a collector to store the summer solar heat so they were essentially useless. While the idea was ahead of it's time, it doesn't work in Michigan. Don't let your idiot governor waste tax dollars on this. Get in there and have a sit-in. Gather as many folks who will be affected by this and fill those acres with bodies, pack picnic lunches, take the kids and just peacefully take over the fields. Do not however ruin any crops that might becoming up. The farmers still need an income.
This does not go before the Township Board. The planning commission wrote the ordinance not the board. The board only approved what the planning commission wrote. The board will not be the governing body that issues the special use permit. The planning commission who wrote the ordinance would issue the permit to DTE based on all zoning being met by DTE.