RAISIN TWP. — A state program intended to reward local governments that host renewable energy projects has awarded $400,000 to Raisin Township.

The grant came about as a result of Raisin Township hosting Beecher Solar, which is a project of Next Era Energy. The project is slated to generate up to 80 megawatts of electricity by installing photovoltaic solar arrays on about 600 acres.

“Today’s grants support townships that chose to host these projects, providing them flexible resources to make critical investments in their communities,” Phil Roos, director of the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, said in a news release.

“This award will be extremely beneficial to the township for improving road projects, public safety, and other essential services for our residents,” said Raisin Township supervisor Tom Hawkins. “The Renewables Ready Communities Award is a great way to incentivize communities to work together to increase renewable energy production in Michigan.”

Funding through the Renewables Ready Communities program is available until the funds are exhausted. 

So far, Raisin Township is the only community in Lenawee County to receive funding through the program.