MSU Extension to host Solar Energy Development meetings

NEGAUNEE — Solar companies have recently been contacting farm owners in order to secure land for solar energy projects, but how do you know if signing a lease agreement with these companies is the right decision?

The Michigan State University Extension, along with the Michigan Farm Bureau and the Michigan Energy Office, are hosting seven different meetings to help farmers, large landowners and other members of the public learn more about these agreements. The meetings will discuss the context behind solar energy development on Michigan farmlands and how the agreement could impact the community, as well as planning and zoning approaches, lease considerations and tax implications.

“We’re trying to just raise awareness among large landowners, farmers and others, about things to look out for so that they know that this decision, which could be a 25 or 30-year decision, that they’re prepared for the outcome of that,” said Brad Neumann, senior extension educator for Michigan State University.

The Upper Peninsula meeting will be held on March 7th in Powers at the Pinecrest Medical Care Facility form 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. central time. Other meetings will be held in Traverse City, Big Rapids, Frankenmuth, Tecumseh, Ionia and Three Rivers.

Pre-registration is required and must be done by March 4th for all meetings. Click HERE to register for any of the seven meetings.

For more information on the meetings, click HERE. You can also contact Neumann directly at (906) 475-5731 or by email at neuman36@msu.edu.