The Potato Growers of Michigan, Inc. (PGMI) recognizes the growing role of renewable energy in our state’s future and supports the rights of landowners to make decisions about how their property is used. As strong proponents of personal property rights, we respect each landowner’s freedom to enter into agreements that align with their values and needs.
That said, PGMI believes solar energy development must be approached thoughtfully, with a clear focus on responsible siting and long-term land use impacts — especially when productive farmland is involved.
We urge policymakers, developers, and communities to prioritize solar siting on rooftops, industrial lands, and other areas not well suited for farming. With smart planning, it is possible to advance clean energy goals while preserving Michigan’s high-quality agricultural soils for future food production. Organizations like the American Farmland Trust have outlined principles for “smart solar” development that align energy generation with land stewardship and food security — an approach we strongly support.
One critical concern relates to food safety. When solar panels and systems are eventually removed, small fragments of plastic and metal may remain in the soil. For crops like potatoes, which grow underground, this poses a unique and serious risk. Tuber vegetables can readily engulf foreign objects, creating contamination hazards that impact not just growers, but also processors and consumers. Ensuring clean, safe soil is critical for maintaining the integrity of Michigan’s food supply.
Additionally, we are deeply concerned about the use of federal subsidies by energy companies to secure land contracts. These subsidies allow companies to offer prices that are up to ten times higher than fair market value, using taxpayer dollars to artificially inflate land prices. This practice creates an uneven playing field, making it nearly impossible for farmers — particularly beginning and next-generation farmers — to compete for farmland. It also risks long-term harm to Michigan’s agricultural economy and land access.
PGMI supports a balanced approach to renewable energy development — one that respects private property rights, protects farmland, ensures food safety, and uses public funds responsibly. PGMI urges policymakers, local governments, and energy developers to work collaboratively with the agricultural community to ensure that renewable energy solutions are implemented in ways that protect farmland, promote food safety, and sustain our rural economies for generations to come. — May 2, 2025