LANSING, Mich. – A proposed ballot initiative to repeal how clean energy is sited in Michigan communities would harm job creation, farm income, protections for workers and critical revenue for local governments, the Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council and Advanced Energy United said today as the Board of State Canvassers met on the matter. 

“Michigan’s new clean energy laws are poised to create jobs and secure new revenue for farmers and local communities, which is why this ballot initiative must be rejected by the Board,” said Dr. Laura Sherman, president of Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council. “By moving toward clean energy and energy storage, Michigan consumers and businesses will see lower utility bills and a more reliable and resilient electric grid. The law also retains local input in the build-out of clean energy across Michigan, while providing a pathway for larger projects to go through the state for approval.”

“Under the new laws, Michigan is a national leader in the clean energy transition,” said Trish Demeter, Managing Director with Advanced Energy United. “This short-sighted ballot initiative should be rejected by the Board so advanced energy businesses can grow and create more good-paying jobs for Michigan workers. This ballot proposal eliminates the community benefit element of $2,000 per megawatt of capacity to each participating local municipality, harming communities and depriving them of much-needed tax revenues that support fire and police, schools, roads, and more vital services. Coupled with historic federal investments in clean energy, now is the time to move forward, not backward.” 

Click here to learn more about Advanced Energy United's work in Michigan.