Developing Solutions for Brownfield Renewable Energy in Michigan: Compendium for Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)

In response to Michigan’s 2023 legislation mandating a 50% renewable energy portfolio by 2030 and 60% by 2035, this project explores how brownfield sites—properties with known or suspected contamination—can support the state’s clean energy transition. While public support favors siting renewable energy on such disturbed lands over farmland or forests, brownfield redevelopment faces significant barriers, including cost, grid interconnection, uncertainty in securing an energy buyer, and site selection complexity. To support the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) in launching a $10 million Brownfield Renewable Energy Pilot Program under the federal Climate Pollution Reduction Grant, our team…