The $300 million proposed project from Germany-based energy company RWE would span up to 1,100 acres in Zeeland and Jamestown Townships. The land is located south of I-196 near the Ottawa Executive Airport on Byron Road.
The Silver Maple Solar farm would power more than 34,000 homes and generate $30 million in property taxes over the project’s lifetime. It would also create more than 250 construction jobs.
RWE says the location is ideal near an existing Consumers Energy high-voltage transmission line, which runs just east of the executive airport.
Some Zeeland residents are speaking out against the project on social media and with “Save Family Farms” yard signs. They cite concerns over the loss of farmland, possible environmental impacts, and feel solar panels are aesthetically unappealing.
The Zeeland Township Planning Commission will hold a meeting on Tuesday, December 9th at 7 p.m. at the township offices to review the proposed solar ordinance. Residents are invited to attend and share comments.
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