Michigan’s EGLE’ Renewables Ready Communities Awards push renewable energy funding closer to its 2035 clean energy goals while funding local services.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has announced a fresh round of funding totaling $3.67 million to support six communities as part of its ongoing Renewables Ready Communities Awards (RRCA) program. The awards provide financial incentives to local governments that host large-scale solar and battery storage projects, helping the state move toward its ambitious clean energy targets while funding local infrastructure and public services.

The six communities receiving funds in this latest round will help develop renewable energy facilities capable of powering more than 847,000 Michigan homes and businesses, according to EGLE’s June 2025 release.

Huron County Among Top Beneficiaries of New Solar and Battery Projects

Century Oaks Project Diagram - Renewable Energy Funding — Century Oaks Project Diagram

Leading the award recipients is Colfax Township in Huron County, which will receive $1.67 million. The township is hosting two significant renewable energy developments: the Century Oaks Storage battery project and the Huron County Silver Creek Solar project. These projects alone will add 334 megawatts of solar capacity to Michigan’s energy portfolio.

The funds earmarked for Colfax Township will be used for a mix of infrastructure and community needs, including road repairs, a new fire department tanker, cemetery upgrades, and walking path development. The award is structured so that half of the funds are disbursed once construction begins, with the remainder delivered upon operational startup. Most of these projects are scheduled to be operational by 2026.

Rural Communities Leverage Renewable Energy Funding for Local Improvements

The RRCA program was created to help communities offset the financial and logistical challenges of hosting large-scale renewable energy installations. The awards allow local governments to address a wide range of needs, from public safety improvements to park renovations.

For example, Sands Township in Marquette County will receive $748,500 to support upgrades at Strawberry Lake Park, develop a nature trail at Sands Township Park, and renovate its government office complex. Township Supervisor Darlene Walch expressed appreciation for the program’s financial boost, noting that the upgrades will be delivered “sooner than anticipated.”

Similarly, Quincy Township in Branch County was awarded $245,000, which Supervisor Kurt Barve stated will fund a new building for the township cemetery, improving long-term cemetery operations.

Other award recipients include:

Fayette Township in Hillsdale County: $675,000 for the Heartwood Solar project.
Johnstown Township in Barry County: $297,500 for the Spring Creek Solar project.
Butler Township in Branch County: $35,000 for the Cold Creek Solar project.

Michigan’s Broader Renewable Energy Push Backed by State and Federal Funding

The RRCA program launched in late 2024 with an initial $30 million budget allocation approved in Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s FY 2024 state budget. Since then, EGLE has awarded over $24.2 million across 35 Michigan communities in both peninsulas. If approved by the state legislature, an additional $129.1 million in federal funding—secured in October 2024—could further expand the program, including launching new pilot projects on brownfield sites and strengthening workforce development through EGLE’s Renewable Energy Academy.

Governor Whitmer’s administration has set a target for Michigan to reach 60% renewable energy and 100% clean energy by 2035, standards codified in the state’s landmark 2023 clean energy legislation. Programs like RRCA are seen as critical tools for reaching those goals.

Local Leaders Praise Funding Model as Essential for Rural Areas

The financial support has been especially valuable for rural communities with limited resources to absorb the infrastructure demands that often accompany large-scale energy projects. In a previous round of awards, Lee Township in Calhoun County received over $4 million for the Sunfish Solar 1 and 2 projects. Calhoun County Community Development Director Jen Bomba noted that RRCA funds are “essential in order for rural communities like Lee Township to properly support large-scale renewable energy developments.”

The RRCA awards allow local officials to support renewable energy expansion while investing directly into the needs of their residents—whether through improved emergency services, upgraded parks, or more resilient infrastructure.

Michigan Expands Use of Clean Energy to Combat Climate Change

Michigan’s efforts come amid national and global pushes to accelerate the transition to renewable energy as a primary tool for mitigating climate change. The renewable projects supported under the RRCA are expected to make meaningful contributions toward the state’s share of reducing greenhouse gas emissions while building a diverse, affordable, and sustainable energy portfolio.

For additional information on eligibility, award amounts, and obligations, EGLE directs interested parties to the program’s webpage. An interactive map of participating Michigan municipalities is also available.

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