Michigan Democrats have introduced a legislative package that – among other efforts – would double the state's renewable portfolio standard (RPS) to 20% by 2022.
The legislative package includes H.B.4055, H.B.4518, and H.B.4519, as well as S.B.295, S.B.296 and S.B.297. Dubbed Powering Michigan's Future, the legislation would do the following:
- Increase Michigan's RPS to 20% by 2022;
- Double the energy-efficiency standard;
- Eliminate the renewable energy surcharge; and
- Control energy costs and ensure reliability and affordability.
Powering Michigan's Future legislative package will build upon the success of Michigan's clean energy sector.
‘Michigan's current clean energy policy expires this year, and the time to act is now to make electricity more affordable and grow our economy,’ says Rep. Sam Singh, D-East Lansing. ‘We have a real opportunity to grow Michigan businesses that are already manufacturing and installing products like energy-efficient appliances and windows and components for wind turbines and solar panels.’
Since 2008, Michigan has seen nearly $3 billion in private-sector investment in clean energy-creating jobs, reining in rising electricity costs and reducing pollution. Advances in technology and private-sector competition are driving down the cost of renewable energy and creating huge opportunities for Michigan families and businesses to save money. Michigan families and businesses will save $1.2 billion over the next three years by reducing energy waste.
