Evart hosts the second major solar energy development conference Information

EVART — The public is invited to attend a second town hall-style meeting on Thursday, April 11, from 7 to 8:30 pm at the Osceola County Community Building/Fairgrounds in Evart to discuss major energy developments of the sun.

At the meeting, participants will review a local resource inventory map, hear the results of a solar site survey, and participate in small group discussions to provide additional public input on large-scale solar in Osceola County.

About 80 people attended the first meeting on March 20. Sarah Mills, from the University of Michigan, gave a presentation on the pros, cons and business of solar energy.

The second event on April 11 is free and open to the public. Snacks and refreshments will be provided. Participation in the March 20 event is not a requirement to attend the second meeting, all are welcome.

Registration for the April 11 meeting is highly recommended and helps with meal and seating arrangements. Those who register by April 10 and attend the meeting will receive a complimentary gift. Sign up for

This planning effort is funded by a grant from Lawrence Berkeley National Labs with technical assistance from Michigan State University and the University of Michigan.

Because of local interest in preparing for the potential of large-scale solar energy, Osceola County was selected as part of a national effort to better understand how to participate in community planning around renewable energy. Although there are many types of renewable energy, this project focuses on large-scale solar, such as 40 acres or more.

This two-part process will result in a planning study that Osceola County and neighborhoods can use, or modify, to meet their planning needs related to large-scale solar energy.

Questions about the project can be directed to Mary Reilly, MSU Extension, reillym8@msu.edu.