March 17, 2017
Michigan

DTE at early stages in wind park development

John Kennett | Midland Daily News | March 16, 2017 | www.ourmidland.com

The possibility of a wind park in Ingersoll Township has some residents concerned. But, DTE spokesperson Scotty Kehoe said the company is still in the exploration stage of determining where wind conditions and land would be appropriate for wind turbines.

“We’re so early in the process and are now just evaluating what areas might be a possibility,” said Kehoe, DTE Energy regional manager for corporate and government affairs. “We’re meeting with land owners to discuss interest before we even begin to design a wind park.”

Kehoe was not able to be reached by the Daily News for an earlier story on the possible wind park because he had been in the field helping to restore customers’ power after the recent strong wind storms hit Michigan.

“It was all hands on deck. I am just now getting back to my desk.” Kehoe said on Wednesday.

DTE is in the exploration stage of determining whether three Midland townships – Ingersoll, Mount Haley and Porter – would be an appropriate setting for a wind park.

“We’re also exploring areas throughout the entire state (of Michigan),” Kehoe said.

Area residents will be able to meet with Kehoe on Wednesday, March 22, when he will be available to answer questions at Ingersoll Township Hall, 3026 S. Sasse Road. The town hall meeting will begin at 7 p.m.

“It is very important at DTE that we are very courteous and respectful,” Kehoe said. “We want to share information, inform people what is going on and hear feedback. I know it is a cliché, but we want to be a good neighbor.”

The southern part of Ingersoll Township has plenty of open, farm lands that could be suitable for a wind park.

Ingersoll Township Supervisor Chuck Tabb has already received opinions on both sides of the issue.

“There are some residents of the county who have been approached and are in favor. They’ve given me some input. But, we do have some strong anti-wind turbine (stances) from farmers who own lots of land,” said Tabb in an earlier Daily News article.

Kehoe realizes that the March 22 meeting might be filled with emotion on both sides.

“There will be some resistance and that is OK,” he said.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2017/03/17/dte-at-early-stages-in-wind-park-development/