LAKETOWN TWP., MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Feb. 3, 2023) – A decision on whether or not to give the green light to a solar power project at Laketown Township hall is on hold for almost two months after the township board on Wednesday, Feb. 1, agreed to do further research. Three of the five board members were present at the workshop.
A decision on the solar project was expected at the Feb. 8 meeting, but the three board members on Wednesday came to the consensus to move the discussion to the April 5 workshop. The March 1 workshop will focus on the proposed budget for fiscal year 2023-2024 and discussion on a water contract with the City of Holland.
Workshop meetings are 5 p.m. at the township hall, 4338 Beeline Road. A Zoom option is available.
In January, the township discussed the proposed installation of 48 solar panels adjacent to the township hall for a total cost of more than $53,000 after tax rebates. The panels would power the township offices. The 21.60-kilowatt system by Harvest Solar of Jackson would cost $76,205, but a new federal tax credit reduces the cost by $22,862. The system is estimated to produce 27,936 kilowatt hours saving the township $2,926 in electrical bills in the first year, according to Harvest Solar documents. Over 30 years, the system is projected to save the township $81,101. The system would pay for itself in about 13 years, according to the township. It has a 30-year warranty with a 40-year system life expectancy.
Residents and some board members had questions about the use of solar and its cost. Since the January meeting, the proposed location of the panels has been modified. The proposed array was moved farther west and north to be less visible to address neighbor concerns, according to township Manager Al Meshkin. Solar power is not new for the township.
In 2015, a 100-kilowatt array was installed at the Felt Estate, 6597 138 th Ave., to take advantage of tax credits that were then available. The power generated
covers the electrical needs of the estate. For more information, call the township at (616) 335-3050 or email office@laketowntwp.org.
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