Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Post

I frequently hear references to the necessity that the energy system transition that is required to achieve climate goals is a just transition. Energy justice policy and programming should work to build power among – and center the needs of – low-income communities, communities of color, and frontline communities that have been disproportionately harmed by the fossil fuel economy. There is no bigger opportunity to ensure energy justice than utility rate modernization. Massachusetts should follow California's lead and pass legislation that mandates Graduated Income Based Electric Rates.

Until the public is confident that the CPUC is implementing policies that are in the in the public interest versus the IOU’s interests, the public will continue losing confidence and trust in the CPUC, and continue to increase public resistance to critically important electrification and deccarbonization policies.

Late last night, #CALeg passed a budget deal cutting over $1B from critical clean energy and transportation programs. California Policy lead, Edson Perez, expressed concern over these cuts and issued the following statement: “The clean energy and clean air budget cuts passed today show a lack of foresight by California’s leaders. Resiliency programs like DSGS and DEBA are critical for supporting the grid and keeping our lights on during emergencies, like the heat waves and wildfires we are already seeing this summer. In addition, we are deeply disappointed in the significant cuts made to clean transportation programs that support electric vehicle charging infrastructure and zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. Clean transportation programs are essential to protect the most vulnerable communities from air pollution. We anticipate continued conversations with the legislature and Governor on alternative solutions to backfill these programs with Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund proceeds or climate bond funds.” Read the full statement here: https://lnkd.in/gPGQKFNr

Michigan makes history with bold legislation! 🌍💡 The state aims for 100% clean electricity by 2040, joining the ranks of other leaders in the clean energy transition. 🍃🔋 However, debates heat up over effectiveness, with Democrats praising climate action and Republicans expressing concerns. 🤔⚡️ #CleanEnergy #MichiganClimateAction

Sunrun CEO Mary Powell sat down with The Wall Street Journal to explain how we're providing a cleaner energy experience for our customers, and shares the challenges of upgrading the energy grid, including rising interest rates, federal regulation and climate change. Check it out below https://lnkd.in/eriTbQQt

Get wonky and explore the historical trends and future projections of Minnesota's gas use and emissions by reading our recent whitepaper "Hidden beneath our feet: Minnesota’s growing decarbonization challenge."

By electrifying state highways, state DOTs and the energy sector can collaborate to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while preserving land use. The Ray and Minnesota DOT share the need for increased transmission and its applications in our recent webinar. Learn more here⬇️ https://buff.ly/3VHnzAW

Potholes en route! There’s a very useful review of ‘EVs in the USA’ by Irwin Stelzer in today’s Sunday Times: America faces alarming potholes on the road to electric cars. https://lnkd.in/eUravUSN Because it may be behind a subscription wall, here’s Mr Stelzer’s summary: “That is where the war on climate change stands. Fossil fuel production is rising rather than falling, EVs are not top of consumers’ wish lists, the grid cannot move power from some wind and solar installations to consumers, battery manufacture and disposal are damaging to the environment, and the high price of many green consumer products, at a time of inflation-straitened finances, is mitigating against their adoption. Policy made with unwarranted certainty and in a panic can be expensive. At times, it’s best to take Ronald Reagan’s advice: “Don’t just do something, stand there.”” I have in mind another country or two where the final paragraph applies!!

One year ago today, the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law, kickstarting the biggest climate investment in US history! 🌿🌞 New federal rebates and incentives will help #OurCommunities expand solar, EVs and energy efficiency upgrades, supporting a #CleanEnergy future. Learn more about how federal climate investments can help achieve energy savings at home. Learn more: bit.ly/3YAYuaC

“At its core, we still have an electricity system basically designed for the last century, and it is not going to work in the years and decades to come.” Discover more in #TheBartlettReview by Professor Michael Grubb, Professor of Energy and Climate Change at The Bartlett School of Environment, Energy and Resources, UCL to get an insight into the challenges faced by policymakers looking to reform the UK electricity market. https://lnkd.in/eixmKbQE