SB 1591 Summary

• Establishes Part 324 to regulate offshore wind energy facilities in Michigan's Great Lakes, including site assessment, construction, operations, and decommissioning activities.

• Creates a lease auction system where the state awards 30-year leases for bottomlands to qualified bidders; requires $3.00/acre annual rent plus 3% royalties on gross revenue from electricity generated.

• Requires lessees to obtain site assessment permits, construction and operations permits, and decommissioning permits; mandates financial assurance, liability insurance, and comprehensive environmental impact assessments before operations.

• Establishes an Offshore Wind Energy Advisory Council to review permit applications and provide recommendations to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment on facility approvals.

• Allows research activities and environmental monitoring under section 32504b without full Part 324 compliance, if conducted by approved nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or educational institutions.