Congressman Benishek: Power Plant Deal is Good News

MARQUETTE, MI: Dr. Dan Benishek (MI-01) today released the following statement after Wolverine Power and WE Energies announced a deal to keep the Marquette Presque Isle Power Plant operational:

“Wolverine and WE’s announcement today is great news for the Marquette region and all of Northern Michigan. Reliable and secure power in the Upper Peninsula is critical for job creation, growing our local economy, and the livelihood of Northern Michigan’s citizens. I am pleased that after working closely with Governor Snyder’s office, Michigan Senator Tom Casperson, and local officials, it appears this power plant will continue providing energy to the Upper Peninsula. Additionally, the investments made by Wolverine will improve this facility while creating jobs locally. My office will continue to be as helpful as possible as this deal moves forward to ensure our area continues to have a strong and successful power plant.”

 

State Rep. Ed McBroom also offered congratulations after hearing news that co-ownership of the Presque Isle Power Plant in Marquette by We Energies and Wolverine Power Cooperative will provide the funding needed to comply with coming federal environmental pollution regulations to keep the facility operating and people employed.

“This is great news for the employees and customers of the Presque Isle plant, and just as important to the environment, as well as future economic development in the Upper Peninsula,” said McBroom, R-Vulcan. “An affordable, stable power supply is vital and these two companies coming together to make that happen is the kind of cooperation that will continue moving all of Michigan forward.”

The agreement will see Wolverine provide the retrofit necessary in exchange for a minority interest share in the facility once the work is completed.