Energy Efficiency

MEC is working hard to increase energy efficiency around the state. Taking energy efficient measures significantly reduces energy consumption, and this means big savings for all Michigan residents. Increased energy efficiency will also create more jobs because reduced energy costs give Michigan businesses a competitive edge. In addition, increased energy efficiency will alleviate our dependency on fossil fuels as well as improve grid reliability.

Renewable Energy

MEC is also pushing for an increased focus on renewable energy - including wind, solar, biomass, and geothermal sources. This is a very beneficial move for Michigan considering that we import 100% or our coal, 75% or our natural gas, and 100% or our uranium. Using renewable energy would alleviate our dependency on imported fossil fuels and keep more of our energy dollars here at home. A focus on renewable energy would also create more high paying jobs considering that Michigan is in a good position to become a leader in the development of renewable energy technology.

Pollution Controls

In addition to these efforts, MEC is also working hard to increase power plant pollution controls. This is an important move considering the alarming rates of pollution in our environment. This pollution is evidenced by such indicators as increased levels of mercury in our lakes as well as a statewide increase in asthma cases. By installing controls on our ageing fleet of coal-fired power plants, we are able to reduce polluting agents. These include nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, as well as mercury. Pollution reduction would benefit the health of all Michigan residents.