Climate & Environment
Solar Energy Handbook
The Solar Energy Handbook: A Citizen's Guide
Solar energy is a growing trend across Michigan. This handbook explains solar energy—both for homes and large-scale projects—and how the electric grid works so we can keep the lights on. [Download / read the full handbook here]
Solar Energy
Frequently Asked Questions
Why don't we see more solar on rooftops and parking lots?
Rooftop and parking lot solar are important, but utility rules often limit businesses from generating far more electricity than they use (MPSC, n.d). Rooftop and parking lot solar can’t generate enough electricity to meet growing energy demand and is way more expensive than building on flat, already cleared farmland (House, 2025).
Sources: http://bit.ly/4gZ0rcd, https://bit.ly/3TPLLlQ
Do solar panels contain toxic chemicals?
No. Solar panels are highly regulated products. Panels are majority made up of glass (77%), aluminum (10%) , and silicon (3%) – none of which are toxic.
Source: https://bit.ly/4gTECL8
Can farmland return back to agricultural use once the solar panels are removed?
Yes. Solar projects typically last 20–30 years, and strong decommissioning plans require equipment to be removed so the land can return to its previous use (UW Madison, n.d.). Also, if conservation efforts are done correctly, the soil can actually have more nutrients than before the project was installed (Center for Rural Affairs, 2025)
Why are farmers installing solar on their property?
Leasing solar panels on farmland offers farmers a diversified income, reduces financial risk, and allows for agrivoltaics, where land can also be used for livestock or crops under the panels (MSU, 2025).
Source: https://tinyurl.com/2fn95aj9
Additional Resources
Residential Solar Group Buy Program
Solar Combatting the Climate Crisis
Homeowner Solar Return on Investment
Property Tax ImpactsWHAT'S HAPPENING NOW?
Climate & Environment News
2025 Michigan Climate Summit takeaways: Our team shares thoughts
ABOVE: Zoë Zeerip, Great Lakes Business Network Coordinator The Groundwork Climate and Environment team recently attended the 2025 Michigan Climate Summit put on by our good friends and partners at Michigan Climate Action Network. We asked our folks to each share a...
Inspiration from small-scale solar in northern Michigan
One of the most exciting aspects of my role as a Clean Energy Specialist is seeing firsthand the impact of solar installations on local businesses. In just my first eight weeks with Groundwork Center, I’ve already visited two sites that have recently invested in solar...
Ice Storm Farm Relief Fund profile: Andre Kitscher, Peaceful Valley Farm
A dozen counties in northern Lower Michigan experienced a disastrous ice storm that lasted from March 28 through 30, 2025. The storm is long gone but the damage remains and farmers need the help of all of us to repair extensive fence damage, pay for debris removal,...