Stop Sylvan Solar

Project Status: 

The Sylvan Solar project is an industrial-scale development proposed by the AES Corporation for south-central Newaygo County. The plan involves installing roughly 1,500 acres of solar arrays across both Garfield and Sheridan Charter Townships. Taking a total of almost 2,400 acres of prime agriculturally zoned land out food production. 

As of early 2026, the project status is split:

• Sheridan Charter Township: The Fremont Community Joint Planning Commission approved the Special Land Use Permit for the Sheridan portion of the project in October 2025.

• Garfield Township: Following strong public opposition and a clear commitment to our local Master Plan, the Garfield Township Board voted NO on the permit in early February 2026.

Our Goal: Standing Against a State Override

While we celebrate the victory in Garfield, the fight is far from over. Under Michigan’s Public Act 233, developers now have a pathway to bypass local democracy. Because Garfield Township has denied the permit, the developer will likely appeal to the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) to override our local decision and force the project through at the state level.

Our goal is to ensure that "Local Control" is more than just a phrase. We are working to:

• Preserve Our Heritage: We believe that utility-scale energy projects do not belong on productive agricultural land, and we are committed to protecting the rural character of Garfield and Sheridan Townships for future generations.

• Protect Non-Participating Landowners: We are dedicated to defending the rights of neighbors who have not signed leases with the developer. This includes fighting to prevent:

  1. Loss of Property Value: Ensuring that the homes we’ve invested in aren't devalued by proximity to industrial equipment.

  2. Noise Pollution: Addressing the constant hum of inverters and the noise of construction and maintenance.

  3. Glare and Visual Blight: Protecting our views and safety from the "glint and glare" of thousands of panels.

  4. Environmental Impact: Monitoring potential soil contamination and runoff issues that could affect neighboring wells and wildlife.

  5. Safety & Infrastructure: Ensuring our local roads aren't destroyed by heavy machinery and that our first responders are equipped for specialized industrial fires.