Oshtemo Township Drafts Battery Storage Ordinance

Planning Commission to hear expert presentations on energy storage regulations

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:03pm

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A highly structured abstract painting in soft earth tones, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise botanical spirals, conceptually representing the complex systems and forces involved in sustainable battery energy storage technology.Oshtemo Township's battery storage ordinance aims to balance public safety with the growth of renewable energy infrastructure.Kalamazoo Today

The Oshtemo Township Planning Commission in Michigan will hold a meeting to hear presentations from representatives of the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC), Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE), the University of Michigan Graham Sustainability Institute, and the Kalamazoo County Planning & Development Department regarding the township's draft zoning ordinance for battery energy storage systems.

Why it matters

As renewable energy and battery storage technologies become more prevalent, local governments are working to develop appropriate zoning and safety regulations. Oshtemo Township's ordinance aims to proactively address potential battery storage projects and ensure they are developed safely and in alignment with community priorities.

The details

The 27-page draft ordinance has been in development for some time, with township officials stating that the detailed, technical process of drafting a zoning ordinance typically happens at the staff level before a public review. The presentations will provide expert input on best practices for battery energy storage safety, as the township seeks to build on the MPSC's existing application guidelines.

  • The Oshtemo Township Planning Commission meeting will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at 6 p.m.
  • The township has been working on the battery storage ordinance draft 'almost daily' according to officials.

The players

Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC)

The state regulatory agency that oversees and permits land use for battery energy storage facilities.

Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE)

The state environmental agency that provides guidance and oversight on energy storage projects.

University of Michigan Graham Sustainability Institute

An academic research center that will provide expertise on battery chemistry and energy systems.

Kalamazoo County Planning & Development Department

The county-level planning agency that will offer input on the township's zoning ordinance.

Jodi Stefforia

The Oshtemo Township Planning Director, who stated that drafting a zoning ordinance is a detailed, technical process.

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What they’re saying

“Drafting a zoning ordinance is a detailed, technical process. Most of this work happens at the staff level before a draft is ready for public review, and that's exactly what is occurring now.”

— Jodi Stefforia, Oshtemo Township Planning Director

What’s next

After the presentations, the Oshtemo Township Planning Commission will continue to refine the battery storage ordinance draft before it is made available for public review.

The takeaway

Oshtemo Township is taking a proactive approach to developing zoning regulations for battery energy storage systems, drawing on expert guidance to ensure the ordinance addresses safety and aligns with state-level policies. This process demonstrates how local governments are working to keep pace with evolving energy technologies.