A set of ambitious renewable energy bills, recently approved by the Michigan Legislature and awaiting the signature of Governor Gretchen Whitmer, has garnered enthusiastic praise from clean energy-focused organizations, both within the state and across the nation. Referred to as the Clean Energy Future Plan, this legislation mandates that Michigan utilities procure 15 percent of their electricity from renewable sources, such as wind or solar, by 2029. The requirements then escalate, with targets set at 50 percent by 2030, 60 percent by 2035, and a complete transition to 100 percent renewable energy by 2040. With this initiative, Michigan aligns itself with 11 other states committed to achieving a 100 percent clean energy net-zero future within a similar timeframe.
Furthermore, the recently enacted clean energy regulations in Michigan empower the Michigan Public Service Commission to sanction large-scale solar, wind, and battery storage initiatives. These measures aim to streamline the implementation of clean energy projects within the state.
“This is a major step forward for Michigan, and we want to recognize Governor Whitmer and the Michigan Legislature for their leadership on these critical energy issues. This new legislation works to secure Michigan’s clean energy future but also to make certain the state is positioned to benefit from the valuable new jobs, tax revenue, and ongoing investment that renewable energy brings,” said Erika Kowall, Director, Midwest State Affairs, American Clean Power Association (ACP.) “Michigan is already fifth in the nation for clean energy jobs—currently numbering 124,000—and the Clean Energy Future Plan puts the state in position to see many years of new opportunities and growth resulting from clean energy. ACP looks forward to continuing to work with Michigan leaders to help unleash the state’s full clean energy potential.”
Michigan’s new clean energy laws also drew praise from Clean Grid Alliance (CGA), which works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. “CGA applauds the incredible leadership the Michigan Legislature and Governor Whitmer have shown to advance strong clean energy policies that will pave the way for the Michigan to become carbon free,” added Peder Mewis, Regional Policy Director, Clean Grid Alliance. “Siting and permitting has been the largest roadblock to deploying renewable projects in Michigan, and the reforms in this package will ensure a predictable and stable permitting environment that will unlock billions in economic development across the state for decades to come.”
