Michigan Energy FactsFacts over fear · The numbers, not the noise
Facts over fear · The numbers, not the noise · Michigan energy explained

Michigan Wind and Solar: The Numbers Behind the Debate

Real numbers on land use, farm income, and energy economics in Michigan.

Michigan has ~9.47 million acres of farmland.1
Even 50,000 acres of solar would use about 0.5%.1
Run Your Farm Income NumbersSee What Most People Get Wrong

Built using USDA data, Michigan farm reports, and real-world lease examples.

Wind and solar come with real tradeoffs. Based on available data, the numbers often tell a different story than expected.

For some Michigan farmers, energy leases can offer steadier income than commodity crops — though outcomes vary by location and contract.

This site does not tell you what to think. It shows you the numbers so you can decide.

Michigan law (PA 233)5 has also changed how large energy projects are approved, making it useful to understand the facts behind the debate.

Who This Site Is For

Michigan farmers and landowners evaluating their options

Township and county residents trying to understand local projects

Anyone looking for clear, factual information without the noise

Quick Reality Check

Common assumptions, compared to what the numbers actually show.

Solar land use
Perception: "Takes over farmland"
Reality: Less than 1% even at large scale1
Wind turbines
Perception: "Ends farming on the land"
Reality: Most cropping continues around turbine bases2
Farm income
Perception: "Steady year to year"
Reality: Often varies with commodity prices and weather1
Solar lease income
Perception: "Not worth considering"
Reality: Often higher per acre than typical crop net profit2,3

Start Here

Three places to begin, depending on what you want to know.

Run the Numbers
Compare farm income to wind and solar lease income.
Farm Income Calculator
Land Use Reality
See how much farmland is actually affected.
Land Use Reality
Understand the Law
Learn how PA 233 affects local decisions.
PA 233 Explained

The numbers, briefly

Typical ranges in Michigan. Varies by location and contract.

Michigan farmland
~9.47M acres1
USDA NASS
Typical solar lease
$700–$1,5002,3
per acre / year (typical)
Avg. cropland rent
~$1501
per acre / year (USDA)
Wind turbine payment
$20K–$30K2,3
per turbine / year (typical)

Numbers shown as approximate ranges. See Sources for full references.

What this site is

  • · A neutral, fact-based reference
  • · Built around real Michigan numbers
  • · Useful for landowners and curious neighbors alike
  • · Sourced from public agencies and reporting

What this site is not

  • · Not political or activist
  • · Not corporate marketing
  • · Not legal or financial advice
  • · Not affiliated with any developer or utility