Media Release: Oshtemo Responds to State Changes

Published on October 31, 2025

For Immediate Release: October 31, 2025

Oshtemo Responds to State Changes, Considers Local Protections for Proposed Battery Energy Storage System

Oshtemo Charter Township, Mich – Oshtemo Charter Township officials are reviewing options to protect community safety and local land-use controls after recent state-level changes affecting approval of large-scale renewable energy projects.

November 2023: Public Act 233 passed, limiting local control over solar, wind, and energy storage by allowing the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) to assume authority and approve such projects.

December 2023: Per official land record filed with the Kalamazoo County Clerk, Sable Farms, LLC, executed a lease agreement with NewEdge Power for “land situated in the Township of Oshtemo, County of Kalamazoo, State of Michigan.”

August 2024: Planning Commission discusses Public Act 233, views a Renewable Energy webinar from the Michigan Association of Planning, and directs Township Planning Department to develop a Workable Incompatible Ordinance (WIO).

September 2024: Township Planning Department staff began drafting a WIO to encourage developers to follow local zoning processes, with provisions under consideration including larger setbacks, lower decibel thresholds, increased separation from sensitive land uses, and a public hearing.

December 2024: In response to PA 233 and taking place in open session, the Oshtemo Charter Township Board considered a resolution to “support local control and claim of appeal against Michigan Public Service Commission order.”

January 2025: The Township Board officially adopted the resolution.

August 2025: NewEdge presented to the Oshtemo Planning Commission on BESS technology, development process, safety measures, and community benefits.

Ongoing: Township staff continue to monitor developer actions and ordinances being created in other communities. Based on NFPA 855 standards, the Oshtemo Fire Department has completed a review of safety and emergency-response procedures and tactics for large-scale BESS facilities.

“The Township Board is actively listening to your concerns,” said Cheri Bell, Oshtemo Charter Township Supervisor. “We appreciate the passion and thoughtfulness you’ve brought to this conversation. Your input helps guide our efforts as we evaluate our options and consider how best to protect our community’s interests. We encourage you to stay informed and continue participating in public meetings.”

Oshtemo has not received a formal application from NewEdge Power. If a developer declines to comply with forthcoming local zoning requirements, the MPSC could assert authority and approve a large-scale BESS project.

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About Oshtemo Charter Township:

Established in 1839, Oshtemo exists to advance the quality of life of all residents through a commitment to responsible growth and value-driven municipal services that promote the relationships among economic vitality, environmental stewardship, and social equity.

For more information, please contact:

Rich Blair, Media & Communications Manager, Oshtemo Township

rblair@oshtemo.org | 269.585.4154

Battery Energy Storage Systems