A coalition of groups and individuals committed to addressing climate change by advancing clean energy development in Michigan is looking to strengthen its ranks with local activists. Michigan Homegrown Power (MHP) is focused on supporting the siting of utility scale renewable energy projects.
Last year Michigan passed laws to make the siting of wind, solar and battery projects more predictable. These laws contain protections for communities and the environment. Despite these being transformative laws, there are areas where determined resistance could slow the progress of the projects.
MHP member groups have received grant funds to train and empower concerned citizens to take action in support of clean energy projects. By joining with MHP, you will be part of an energized, well-equipped local team. “Community Teams” will form their own action plan based on the circumstances in their community. Teams can choose from a menu of actions they determine to be the right mix for encouraging a community to embrace renewable energy. Those actions might include:
- Regular and consistent engagement on social media, to push back against misinformation.
- Organizing/promoting townhall-style community education events.
- Staffing a vendor booth (aka “tabling”) at local events, festivals, etc.
- Writing letters to the editor.
- Attending township meetings to speak in favor of clean energy.
- Meeting with local officials/leaders to discuss the benefits of wind or solar projects to the community.
- Local canvassing – including things like literature drops or signature gathering.
Team members will be deployed based on their experience and comfort level with their Community Team’s chosen activities. With our available funding, we can reimburse certain expenses (via gift/gas cards).
A onetime virtual training session will provide all the information and materials needed to help you be confident in addressing the relevant topics. You can request a link by email for the training session.
There is no better way to be the change we wish to see in the world than by acting locally. Your help is most definitely needed. If you want to join our effort, attend a virtual training session or have questions, please contact Mike Buza at theoriginalzuba@yahoo.com or call 810-444-8564.