The Clinic has officially published its new report,
Renewable Energy Siting in Plainfield: Stakeholder Assessment and Community Benefits Framework, prepared by the MIT Renewable Energy Clinic in partnership with the Town of Plainfield.
This report summarizes the MIT Renewable Energy Clinic’s work supporting the Town of Plainfield as it navigates renewable energy development, zoning reform, and community benefit planning related to solar energy and battery energy storage systems (BESS).
Through stakeholder interviews, public engagement, community benefit discussions, and policy research, the Clinic identified community concerns, areas of alignment, and potential governance mechanisms to support future renewable energy projects. The report documents stakeholder outreach methods, analyzes community priorities and perceived risks, and explores how those concerns can be translated into community benefits and implementation strategies.
The report also provides recommendations for renewable energy bylaw implementation, community benefit agreements, municipal governance, and future stakeholder engagement. By bringing together residents, local officials, and other stakeholders, the framework is intended to support informed decision-making and help Plainfield refine its approach to renewable energy siting and long-term municipal oversight.