MichiganRadio

Panel Wants Local Zoning to Manage Michigan's Wind Power LANSING, MI (MPRN) -

A panel is advising against statewide regulations on where to allow wind turbines that generate electricity.

The Michigan Wind Energy Resource Board says local zoning commissions are in a better position than the state to know what will work in their communities, and to make decisions on things like how far wind turbines need to be from other structures.

Leaders of the board testified before the state House Energy and Technology Committee. Representative Jeff Mayes chairs the committee. Mayes says he agrees with the recommendation.

"I know many communities in Michigan are doing a great deal of work to put their arms around renewable energy, and make that fit in their community, not just wind, also anticipating solar," says Mayes, "So as of present, I think their verdict is allow local communities keep moving along and I think that's good advice as of now."

The state will provide local governments with technical and safety advice on locating wind turbines.

A separate state commission is looking at possible rules for locating wind turbines offshore in the Great Lakes. © Copyright 2012, MPRN