Proposed DTE solar park in Ingersoll Township could power 38,700 homes

DTE’s proposed Poseyville Solar Park in Ingersoll Township would generate 129 megawatts and power 38,700 homes, according to the power company, which would develop and operate the park.

According to DTE’s website, the solar park would create hundreds of jobs during construction and create several permanent jobs, helping the local economy as workers spend money in the community. It would also provide additional tax revenue for the community and provide landowners with another source of income.

The proposed park was discussed at the Ingersoll Township Planning Commission meeting March 16. The commission was originally going to make a decision on the park that night, but decided to postpone the decision for one month to allow more time to review comments from the three-hour meeting.

The majority of the comments made were against the proposed solar park, indicating that it would increase traffic and taxes and change the rural feel of the township.

The planning commission will make its decision about the park in a meeting on April 20 at 7 p.m. at Ingersoll Township Hall.

According to Renewable Energy Development Director Michael Rivet, the proposed park, which would be completed in 2028, would help serve Michigan communities while supporting a balanced energy fuel mix.

“Renewable energy projects like this one offer numerous benefits to the communities that host them, helping secure generational ownership of farmland, creating local jobs, and generating tax revenue that supports schools, first responders, veteran and senior citizen services and more,” Rivet said.

The park would span over 626 fenced acres of land across South Sasse Road, East Kent Road, East Freeland Road, East Laporte Road, Lincoln Lane and East Brooks Road.

The solar park would consist of solar panels, inverters, retention basins and setback areas.