Coal-fired power plants generate 68.2% of Michigan's electricity. The resulting air pollution causes profound impacts on human health and the environment. Thousands of children suffer ozone-related respiratory problems, while most inland lakes in the state have been poisoned by mercury released from coal combustion. Beyond health issues, there are serious economic drawbacks from burning so much coal. Michigan's lack of natural reserves drives most of our energy dollars away to support mining operations in other regions.

Clearly, public policies that reduce our reliance on coal are long overdue. Enter the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS).

RPS is a relatively simple and effective policy tool that requires utilities to generate a portion of their electricity from renewable sources such as wind, solar and biomass. It is usually imposed as a minimum percentage to be gradually reached over time. For example, the version included in the U.S. Senate's energy bill specifies a renewable mix of 10% by the year 2020. Unfortunately, the original House version contains no such provision.

As debate over the energy bill concludes, the future of a national RPS remains unclear. Two separate RPS amendments have already been defeated in conference committee votes. In both cases, Michigan's representation on the committee was split. Congressman John Dingell (D), ranking member on the House Energy & Commerce Committee, supported the measures, while Congressman Fred Upton (R) opposed them.

Congressman Dingell's favorable position was shaped in part by MEC's efforts. In September, Energy Policy Specialist David Gard organized a trip to Washington, DC to urge support for RPS from Michigan's delegation. A group of members from the business, interfaith and environmental communities met with several representatives, including Congressman Dingell.

The diversity of their perspectives demonstrated to these decision makers the broad base of support for renewable energy in Michigan. However, given the recent committee vote outcomes, more education of our elected leaders is needed.

Regardless of what happens at the federal level, Michigan should pursue its own statewide RPS bill. Thirteen other states have already taken this step. Most notably, former Texas Governor George Bush signed a program into law in 1999 that requires a renewable electricity mix of 2.2% by the year 2009. As of last year, it had already spurred the development of 900 Megawatts (MW) of new wind power in Texas, far exceeding the 400 MW target for 2003.

A similarly modest level of 3% in Michigan could drive the development of over 600 MW of new wind power alone. Michigan's renewable resources also include biomass production from its agricultural sector and a strong manufacturing base on which to build leadership in new solar cell technology.

Improving public health, creating jobs and protecting lakes will require cleaner, more responsible energy policy. A renewable portfolio standard would be a significant improvement and should be supported by elected officials on both the state and federal levels.