Promoting Clean Energy

The Opportunity

The demand for technologies that lessen our dependence on out-of-state fuels, slash emissions of dangerous pollutants, and reduce global warming is growing exponentially. With Michigan’s manufacturing infrastructure, skilled workforce and outstanding research universities, we are poised to prosper by meeting that demand. According to the Renewable Energy Policy Project, Michigan ranks 7th in the nation in its potential to manufacture components used in renewable power systems (wind, solar, etc.). If our state and nation invest in renewable energy, Michigan could attract 35,000 new jobs and $5.53 billion in capital in that sector alone. It would also slash part of the $23 billion annually sent by Michigan residents to other states and nations to buy fuels like coal and oil. Forward-looking public policies on energy efficiency and renewable power can turn Michigan's green economic potential into gold.

The Challenge

The utilities, fossil fuel producers, and to some degree our automakers, are among the biggest obstacles to progress. Poll after poll show overwhelming majorities -- across political divides -- support major change on energy policy. To reinforce this support, MEC is rallying a broad coalition of environmental, business, consumer, faith and public health leaders. While much remains to be done, MEC's effective advocacy is helping to tip the balance of power and inspire state leaders to lift Michigan onto the crest of the clean energy wave.

MEC Energy Priorities

• Urge policymakers to pass a strong energy efficiency bill with a minimum of 1% energy savings per year. Continue to educate policy makers on the necessity of increasing the proposed $68 million energy efficiency fund to $150 million.
• Urge policymakers to increase the proposed “10 percent by 2015” renewable energy standard to “20 percent by 2020.” Ensure the definitions of renewable energy guarantee the maximum amount of “green” power possible.
• Urge policymakers to pass a long-term energy plan which ensures that Michigan ratepayers are protected from unnecessary costs of new power plants, where clean energy alternatives may be available at a lower price. Decisions must take into account all costs associated with supplying energy, including carbon costs, health costs, environmental costs, and employment costs, as well as direct out-of-pocket ones. An “integrated resource plan” ensures that Michigan invests in alternative energy technologies which can provide Michigan manufacturers with clean energy jobs as well as new sources of power for our markets.
• Update commercial and residential building codes and energy efficiency standards for appliances used every day in homes and businesses.
• Advocate with Michigan’s federal delegation for a strong federal cap and trade system for greenhouse gases which ensures significant emission-reduction impacts. This must be paired with an aggressive timeframe which fulfills the recommendations of the International Panel on Climate Change to cut global emissions 80% by 2050.