We, the undersigned residents of Clinton Township, oppose the placement of the proposed solar fields on productive farmland and directly adjacent to residential neighborhoods. Industrial-scale solar installations are not compatible with this location and would be more appropriately situated in industrial-zoned areas, brownfield sites, commercial rooftops, or large parking lots. 

The proposed RWE Clean Energy DCE Development LLC Ground Mount Commercial Solar Facility targeted for section 6E-7N-27 in Clinton Township on the west side of County Road 15 between County Road D and and Leggett Street. This project directly borders no fewer than 10 homes and lies in close proximity to approximately 70 additional residences. While the developer has proposed dirt mounding and tree buffers, these measures do not eliminate the substantial negative impact on nearby properties. Instead, they highlight the incompatibility of the project with surrounding land uses and the potential for significant property devaluation. 

We also strongly oppose converting long-standing, productive farmland into an industrial energy facility for several decades. This conversion disrupts agricultural continuity, affects the rural character of the township, and may create long-term soil and land-use challenges after decommissioning. 

Environmental concerns must also be taken seriously, including: 

• Disruption to subsurface drainage systems, affecting fields and nearby homes.
• Impact on wildlife movement, as fencing and glare alter natural behavior and access to habitat.
• Proximity to established wetlands, which are sensitive ecosystems requiring protection. 

There are additional safety concerns for residents and motorists, including: 

• Fire risks associated with large solar arrays.
• Potential chemical contamination from damaged panels or system components.
• Driver visibility issues caused by glare or construction activity. 

Finally, the long-term consequences of this project are unclear. We are concerned about the lack of firm, enforceable plans for land reclamation at the end of the project’s lifespan and uncertainty regarding disposal of spent solar panels. Without clear accountability, the community could be left with environmental liabilities or local landfill burdens. 

For these reasons, we urge the Clinton Township Zoning Board of Appeals to deny the conditional use zoning change for Parcel #05-008072-00.000. The proposed location is not appropriate for an industrial solar facility, and the long-term consequences for our township, farmland, environment, and neighborhoods are too significant to ignore.

Your signature can make a difference. Together, let's protect our community's land and advocate for better-suited sites for industrial-scale solar installations. Please sign this petition to voice your concern and push for a more balanced approach to sustainable energy development.