ABOVE: Conceptual photo of solar field.

This week, Cheboygan County took a significant step toward advancing renewable energy when the County Planning Commission approved plans for a utility-scale solar installation. In three years, 800 acres of private farmland in Cheboygan County will be transformed into a 110 MW solar array, led by EDP Renewables North America. Once operational, the Northern Waters Solar Project will contribute to Michigan’s clean energy goals by generating enough electricity to power approximately 30,000 homes. Over the project’s 35-year lifespan, developers calculate that the project will generate $20 million in revenue for local governments—unlocking real, long-term economic opportunity for the region.

For local community members, this kind of investment yields several benefits. The first year alone would bring in $400,000 for local school districts—equivalent to hiring several new teachers or providing meaningful raises to existing staff. With an estimated $138,519 going to the public library, this funding can support community outreach, more books, and digital resources, and hiring additional staff. Additionally, with $116,609 in the hands of the fire department, residents could see life-saving investments such as a new fire truck or upgraded emergency infrastructure. The bottom line is that the townships and county are earning an increase in tax revenue that they can use to better the community, however they see fit.

At Groundwork, we believe energy projects like this are about resilience and welfare. After supporting the Ice Storm Farm Relief Fund with our partners at Crosshatch and witnessing the vulnerability of our communities during extreme weather, we recognize the importance of investing in localized, diversified energy systems. Northern Waters Solar Project does just that—helping Michigan move away from centralized fossil fuels toward a more stable and affordable, renewable grid.

Lyla Hollis is Groundwork’s Clean Energy Specialist. lyla.hollis@groundworkcenter.org