Whitmer supports Michigan’s 100% ‘clean energy’ plan.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Pushes for 100% Clean Energy Standard in Michigan
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) is urging lawmakers to pass a groundbreaking 100% clean energy standard, positioning Michigan to join a growing number of states committed to reducing carbon emissions from the power sector. In a compelling address titled “What’s Next,” the Democratic governor outlined her ambitious legislative agenda, which includes a mandate for all energy production to come from renewable sources like wind and solar. While she did not provide a specific timeline, Whitmer emphasized the potential benefits of this proposal for Michiganders, using the year 2050 as a benchmark.
Achieving Clean Energy and Economic Growth
“We have the power to achieve 100% clean energy while simultaneously creating jobs, reducing costs, and reclaiming billions of our federal tax dollars from Washington to invest in Michigan,” Whitmer declared passionately.
Alongside the clean energy standard, Whitmer is also advocating for the strengthening of energy efficiency programs and reforms to the Michigan Public Service Commission. Proposed changes to the commission include streamlining the approval process for clean energy projects and empowering the commission to consider climate and equity factors in their regulatory decisions.
Putting the MI Healthy Climate Plan into Action
Whitmer has been steadfast in her commitment to implementing her administration’s “MI Healthy Climate Plan” since its unveiling in April of last year. The plan sets a goal of achieving economy-wide carbon neutrality by 2050 and calls for a renewable energy standard of 50% by 2030. Democratic lawmakers have introduced their own plan, advocating for a 60% clean energy standard by 2030 and aiming for 100% carbon-free energy by 2035. While Whitmer did not explicitly endorse the timeline, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II expressed support for the more ambitious standard.
Promising Prospects for Progress
With Democrats currently in control of both the governor’s mansion and the state legislature, there is a real possibility for movement on this proposal. Democratic lawmakers in the Michigan House have been collaborating with the governor’s office to overcome obstacles in approving large-scale solar energy projects, as local townships have frequently impeded their development. Addressing these challenges is crucial to achieving broader energy goals.
In 2020, Whitmer issued an executive directive setting the target of achieving economy-wide carbon neutrality by 2050.
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