U.P. energy options
ISHPEMING — Michigan’s current renewable energy and energy efficiency standards are set to expire at the end of this year.
State Representative Scott Dianda and other lawmakers have made trying to resolve Michigan’s energy problems a priority. A Tele–town hall call was held Wednesday night to update everyone on the issues, answer questions and outline options.
“We have sources like solar, hydro and wind, we need a plan that allows the U.P. to control it’s own energy future,” said Representative Scott Dianda.
Lisa Wozniak, Executive Director for the MI League of Conservations voters had this to say, “Michigan utilities are exceeding their energy efficiency goals, saving money and creating jobs for Michiganders. By doubling the Michigan energy standards and removing the spending cap, we can save Michigan families and business money.”
The clean energy sector supports twenty thousand jobs and three billion dollars annually. Michigan workers have started to manufacture, install and maintain their own wind turbines and solar panels. Dianda says the solution must be local.
“Michigan has the highest electrical costs in the Midwest, that makes our state very competitive and it’s a drag on business and family. In fact some our U.P. residents pay some of the highest electrical rates in the nation. Due to our unique challenges, like no other in our energy solutions that we are looking at, we have to make sure that we have some of the best solutions to move forward.”
Michigan is on par to reach its goal of ten percent of renewable energy by the end of the year.