Mid-Michigan communities receive grant to help build solar park

Lansing, Mich (WNEM) – Nine communities across the state, including two from mid-Michigan, were awarded grants totaling $3.5 million.

The announcement comes from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).

The grants are courtesy of the Renewables Ready Communities Awards (RRCA). These are the first round from the RRCA. The grants come in addition with both tax and community benefits from host communities.

Isabella County will receive $375,000, with Isabella Township awarded an additional $375,000.

Funding from the grants will be used to help build the Mission Road Solar Park.

Other communities receiving grants include: Day Township, Felch Township, Norway Township, Sagola Township, Belknap Township, Presque Isle County, and Pulawik Township.

To reach the MI Healthy Climate Plan's goal, building and creating renewable energy at scale is considered essential. The RRCA is one of the state's key tools in reaching their 60% renewable energy and 100% clean energy standard set by clean energy laws .