Michigan becomes a national leader with a 100% clean energy standard, strong labor provisions, and streamlined construction of energy projects.
In a groundbreaking move, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed historic clean energy legislation that positions Michigan as a national leader in the fight against climate change. The new bills not only lower household utility costs but also create tens of thousands of good-paying jobs while protecting the state’s air, water, and public health. This comprehensive clean energy package is a significant step towards achieving the goals outlined in Governor Whitmer’s MI Healthy Climate Plan, which sets the stage for Michigan’s clean energy future.
Lowering Utility Costs and Creating Jobs
The clean energy bills signed by Governor Whitmer are projected to lower household utility costs by an average of $145 per year. Additionally, these measures are expected to create 160,000 new jobs, injecting billions of dollars into Michigan’s economy. By embracing clean energy, Michigan is not only reducing its reliance on foreign fuel but also fostering the growth of a robust clean energy industry that will drive economic prosperity for years to come.
Strong Labor Standards for Clean Energy Production
Michigan’s clean energy future will be built by hardworking union men and women. The clean energy legislation signed by Governor Whitmer includes the strongest labor standards in the nation, ensuring that clean energy jobs provide fair wages and excellent benefits. By prioritizing the well-being of workers, Michigan is setting an example for the rest of the country on how to tackle climate change while creating high-quality jobs that support families and communities.
Streamlining Construction of Energy Projects
To accelerate the development of clean energy projects, the legislation authorizes the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) to streamline the permitting process for utility-scale clean energy. This streamlined approach will attract billions of dollars in federal and private investment, creating a thriving clean energy industry in Michigan. By removing unnecessary barriers, the state is poised to meet its clean energy goals while generating local employment opportunities and driving economic growth.
Prioritizing Climate and Equity in Regulatory Decisions
The new legislation empowers the MPSC to consider climate and equity in their regulatory decisions. This means that the health and well-being of communities will be prioritized as Michigan expands its energy production. By integrating equity into the regulatory process, the state is ensuring a just transition to clean energy, where every Michigander benefits. Michigan’s commitment to a sustainable, clean, and affordable future is underscored by these forward-thinking policies.
Protecting Farmers’ Rights and Land Use
The legislation also protects farmers’ rights to host solar projects on their own land. This empowers farmers to diversify their income by leasing a portion of their land to clean energy developers. By embracing solar energy, farmers can contribute to Michigan’s clean energy goals while maintaining the viability of their land and preserving their heritage. This provision recognizes the importance of personal property rights and supports the growth of the state’s energy sector.
Conclusion:
Governor Whitmer’s signing of the historic clean energy legislation marks a significant milestone in Michigan’s journey towards a sustainable future. With a 100% clean energy standard, strong labor provisions, streamlined construction processes, and a commitment to climate and equity, Michigan is leading the way in clean energy production. By embracing clean energy, the state is not only reducing utility costs and creating jobs but also safeguarding its natural resources for future generations. Michigan’s clean energy future is bright, and the state is poised to serve as a model for other states in the fight against climate change.
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