To meet ambitious climate and decarbonization goals, some states are barring local governments from restricting wind and solar development.
According to an Associated Press article in the U.S. News & World Report, over a dozen U.S. states have passed laws that bar local jurisdictions from blocking renewable energy projects with zoning restrictions in response to a number of challenges from local groups that have blocked or delayed renewable projects.
In Michigan, over two dozen projects were derailed by local zoning rules. Around the country, at least 228 jurisdictions have imposed rules that restrict renewable energy development. In some cases, the concerns are environmental, while others center on the potential loss of farmland. Now, Michigan law still requires developers to go through the local process, but if denied, the decision can be overturned by a state commission if the project meets certain requirements.
Dan Scripps, chair of Michigan’s Public Service Commission, argues that renewable energy projects are vitally important to the entire state and can’t be limited by local concerns. States including Michigan require public utilities to transition away from fossil fuels by 2040 in alignment with federal goals.
FULL STORY: States With Big Climate Goals Strip Local Power to Block Green Projects
Ohio Counties Can Now Ban Renewable Energy Projects
A new state law allows counties to deny wind and solar projects in their jurisdictions, and at least ten counties have already moved to implement bans.
Renewable Energy Overtakes Coal for First Time
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Renewable Energy Going to Waste Due to Grid Bottleneck
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Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?
Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
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LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
Paris Voters Approve More Car-Free Streets
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo says the city will develop a plan to close 500 streets to car traffic and add new bike and pedestrian infrastructure after a referendum on the proposal passed with 66 percent of the vote.
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