Commissioners approve amendments to renewable energy ordinance

Solar and battery energy continue to be a touchy subject for Huron County. The county’s current ordinance allows for up to 15,000 acres of development in the area. (Photo by Seth Stapleton)

BAD AXE – The Huron County Board of Commissioners last week approved minor changes to both its utility-scale solar energy and utility-scale battery energy storage systems rules.

In a 5-1 vote Feb. 24, commissioners approved updating local requirements in the county’s zoning ordinance, as officials cited pressure from state law to maintain control over project approvals.

The text amendments require renewable energy developers to enter into formal agreements with host communities, paying $2,000 per megawatt to the county; and to submit post-construction reports documenting compliance with county standards.

The changes take effect March 10.

Commissioner Kurt Geiger cast the lone vote against the amendments. Commissioner Sami Khoury was absent from the meeting.

The amendments were recommended by the county planning commission at its Feb. 4 meeting.

Several commissioners who supported the measure said they did so reluctantly, arguing the county risked losing its primary siting authority if its ordinance did not align closely with state standards.

Under Michigan law, local governments that adopt renewable energy regulations consistent with state guidelines retain control over approvals. Communities that adopt more restrictive rules – or none at all – can see projects reviewed instead by the Michigan Public Service Commission.

The vote came amid continuing local debate over renewable energy development, farmland preservation and zoning authority in the Thumb region.

During public comment at the Feb. 24 meeting, Bloomfield Township resident Robert Gaffke criticized county officials, accusing them of ignoring the county master plan and allowing potential conflicts of interest in renewable energy zoning decisions. He warned of possible legal action and urged commissioners to adopt a moratorium on solar and battery regulations – a temporary suspension of development – until the issue could be reconsidered.

The comments echoed concerns raised at earlier meetings, where residents questioned the impact of large-scale solar projects on agricultural land, soil and water resources, and the rural character of the county.

The board previously approved a renewable energy ordinance in July 2025, allowing up to 15,000 acres for solar generation and battery storage. Supporters have said the policy could bring investment and cleaner power, while opponents argue it threatens prime farmland and the local farm economy.

Commissioners have said their goal is to balance landowners’ rights with farmland preservation and local oversight. Some officials have warned that failing to adopt state-compatible rules could shift decision-making to Lansing.

No additional action on a moratorium was taken at the Feb. 24 meeting.