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Michigan Offers $10 Million for Renewable Energy and Storage on Contaminated Land
Michigan local governments and federally recognized tribes can receive up to $2 million per project, and the first round holds $5 million.
Projects that put renewable power or energy storage on Michigan brownfield sites can now compete for state grants through the MI Brightfields Pilot.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) announced the program’s opening Request for Proposals Nov. 2. Of the pilot’s $10 million total, $5 million goes to this first round. A second round is set for spring 2027, EGLE said.
Solar, battery energy storage or both are the pilot’s main target, according to EGLE. Other competitive projects that would place renewable energy or storage technology on a Michigan brownfield can also apply, such as wind or geothermal.
Counties, cities, townships and villages are eligible. So are other public bodies formed under state law, such as brownfield redevelopment authorities, economic development corporations and municipal electric utilities. Federally recognized Indian tribes in Michigan can apply through their governing bodies.
Each project site must have known environmental contamination above Part 201 criteria. Awards are capped at $2 million per project. Grants can pay for preapproved costs such as renewable energy and energy storage costs, site preparation and environmental assessment work.
