DTE Energy has confirmed that it is considering Beaver and Williams townships in Bay County for a proposed 254-megawatt wind energy development.

According to a November report from MLive, a DTE spokesperson confirmed that the company is exploring the project, described as a Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS).

The proposal remains in its early planning stages, and the exact location of the development has not been finalized.

If completed, the project would represent DTE's first renewable energy development in Bay County.

Township Officials Begin Discussions

Williams Township Supervisor Jerry Putt confirmed receiving a letter from DTE requesting a meeting with township officials.

The letter proposed meeting either virtually or in person to go over the proposed site plan and take questions about the development.

Putt told MLive that, at that point, the letter was the only information he had received about the project.

A meeting between DTE representatives and Williams Township officials is scheduled for December 9, 2026.

It has not yet been established whether the meeting will be open to the public.

MLive also reported that Beaver Township Supervisor Nick Tomczak had not responded to its request for additional information about the proposal.

Michigan's Renewable Energy Siting Law

The proposed development also raises questions about the role of local government under Michigan's renewable energy siting legislation.

Under Public Act 233 of 2023, qualifying large-scale renewable energy developments may seek approval through the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) under certain circumstances.

The law applies to wind energy projects with a capacity of 100 megawatts or greater. At 254 megawatts, DTE's proposed development exceeds that threshold.

The law establishes procedures involving local governments, including opportunities for qualifying local ordinances and local review, as well as a state-level approval process. The availability and requirements of these pathways depend on the circumstances of the individual project.

Important distinction: The fact that DTE is exploring this proposal does not mean that construction has been approved or that an application has already been filed with the MPSC.

Important Questions Remain

While DTE has confirmed its interest in the two townships, significant details have not yet been made public. Residents may want answers to several important questions:

  • Project location: Where would the turbines be installed, and how many are being considered?
  • Residential proximity: How close could turbines be located to homes and neighboring properties?
  • Environmental impacts: What studies will evaluate potential impacts on wildlife, agricultural land, drainage, and the surrounding environment?
  • Noise and shadow flicker: What standards and studies would apply to nearby residences?
  • Local authority: What role will Beaver and Williams township officials have in reviewing the proposal?
  • Public participation: When will residents have an opportunity to review project plans, attend meetings, and submit comments?
  • Long-term responsibilities: What provisions would address turbine maintenance, eventual removal, and site restoration?

These questions are particularly important while the project is still in its early planning stages.

December 9 Meeting: An Important Next Step

The scheduled December 9 meeting between DTE and Williams Township officials represents an early opportunity for local leaders to obtain additional information about the proposed development.

Residents should watch for announcements from Williams Township regarding the meeting, any subsequent public discussions, and the availability of project documents.

Save Our Skyline will continue following developments in both Williams and Beaver townships.

Stay Informed About the Proposal

Save Our Skyline is committed to keeping Great Lakes Bay Region residents informed about proposed industrial-scale wind developments and their potential effects on local communities.

We believe residents should have access to accurate information, opportunities to ask questions, and a meaningful role in discussions about projects affecting their communities.

As additional information becomes available, we will publish updates, meeting information, and relevant documents.

Stay informed. Stay involved. Save Our Skyline.

Sources and additional information

Verification date: November 7, 2026.