10/15/2026
An Ottawa County judge has ruled that RWE Solar can take possession of 562 acres of farmland for its planned 1,900‑acre, 200 MW solar project . The land represents roughly one‑third of the proposed development footprint
The dispute centered on a five‑year lease option signed in 2020 by the farmer’s late father. The current landowners argued they believed the agreement only allowed land studies, but the judge found the lease language “clear” and ruled that RWE properly executed the option before its 2025 expiration .
The project still requires approval from the Michigan Public Service Commission, a process expected to extend into 2027
James Smallegan, a Zeeland area farmer, disputed the legality of a contract his father signed with RWE Solar.