Advanced Energy United applauds Governor Whitmer’s vision for achieving 100% clean energy by 2035

LANSING, MICHIGAN – In her “What’s Next Address,” Governor Whitmer named her clean energy priorities for the remainder of the legislative session, among them: reforms to permitting of large-scale renewable energy, a 100% clean energy standard, improvements to utility energy waste reduction programs, and authorization of the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) to consider equity and climate in its regulation of utilities.

“From her implementation of the MI Healthy Climate Plan, to the huge investments in clean energy in the most recent state budget, and the onshoring of battery manufacturing, Governor Whitmer’s leadership on clean energy is undeniable,” said Samarth Medakkar, Policy Principal with Advanced Energy United. “We appreciate this comprehensive approach which not only sets ambitious targets for renewable power and energy efficiency, but also lays out practical reforms for permitting processes and regulatory oversight that will make those goals possible.”

To achieve a fully decarbonized power sector, the state will need to address how it provides permits for large-scale wind and solar development. Under the current process, utility-scale wind and solar projects must pass through a tangle of siting and permitting decisions made at the township, city and county levels. This patchwork approach has left some projects in limbo, which would otherwise bring immense local benefits.

“We echo Governor Whitmer’s calls to treat clean energy projects like any other source of energy and permit them through the MPSC,” Medakkar continued. “This approach is the best way to ensure projects are still rigorously reviewed with input from communities and other stakeholders while ensuring the efficiency needed to meet Michigan’s climate goals and unlock the state’s full economic potential.”

Advanced Energy United looks forward to working with the legislature to advance this bold package of climate change solutions and support measures within them that allow for low-cost and streamlined deployment of clean energy technologies.