UP solar projects halted after EPA stops funding for Michigan's low-income energy savings program
MARQUETTE, Mich. (WBUP/WJMN) — The funding for Michigan’s Solar for All program has been cut by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), marking a setback in the state’s renewable energy efforts.
This news comes from Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) Director Phil Roos, who issued a statement in response to the EPA’s action on Tuesday, Aug. 12.
The Solar for All program provides municipalities with funding to utilize solar power in their communities, using the resulting power savings to benefit low-income households.
“The state’s MI Solar for All Program would significantly reduce energy costs for thousands of Michigan residents, providing an average savings of $400 per family per year while creating approximately 700 high-quality local jobs, boosting the state’s economy and supporting American businesses,” Roos said. “By increasing Michigan’s energy independence, the program also builds resilience against power outages and extreme weather events. Regrettably, the EPA wants to retroactively cut funding for this vital program at a time when such initiatives should be prioritized.”
The State of Michigan allocated $156.1 million in federal funds to provide direct financial investment for the associated work (rooftop solar, community solar, energy storage, and more). To date, EGLE has announced $13.9 million in awards to 13 pilot projects across the state, including multiple projects in the Upper Peninsula.
The Superior Watershed Partnership (SWP) was set to receive funds to install rooftop solar panels on 15 households, with at least five also receiving energy storage. SWP planned to prioritize critical care customers with medical devices dependent on electricity.
Sault Ste. Marie’s Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan had planned to install solar and storage at 12 homes and one community building, provided as an electric bill offset.
Another recent project announced by EGLE was a solar garden in Escanaba. Escanaba Electric Utility Director Gerald Pirkola said the solar garden was supposed to be built on an undeveloped brownfield site with 60% of the benefits in energy savings shared with eligible low-income households.
In a call with Pirkola, he said the savings could have helped about 600 households. While the fate of the grants are uncertain, Pirkola isn’t getting his hopes up; Escanaba will be halting project plans and working under the assumption that they will not get the funding.
Roos’ release noted that EGLE is currently working with Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel to “determine our next steps.”
Pirkola said, “We’re hopeful that Michigan can win in the courts.”
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