Board accepts updated Polaris Wind Energy decommissioning estimate and paperwork

The Gratiot County Board of Commissioners accepted an updated five-year decommissioning calculation and paperwork for the Polaris Wind Energy project.

County staff explained the update was overdue and should have been completed previously; the revised estimate increases the per-turbine decommissioning amounts and the total liability in the fund. Commissioners noted the change is largely actuarial and construction-cost related and that the agreement will be reviewed by county legal counsel (Fahey) before final filing.

The decommissioning bond creates a fund to ensure future turbine removal and site restoration to five feet of topsoil over the remaining foundation pieces. Commissioners moved and seconded acceptance of the updated decommissioning paperwork; the board approved the update by voice vote.

County staff said the update corrects a missed administrative cycle and restores the required five-year review schedule. No immediate county expenditure was associated with the acceptance; the vote maintains the county’s role in holding and monitoring the decommissioning security per standard procedure.