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Every Day Can Be Earth Day in Michigan
by Lisa Diggs
The debate about renewable energy is heating up in Michigan, and not just because today is Earth Day. The scientific community is increasingly aligned behind the contention that climate change is a reality, and that fossil fuels are contributing to the problem. You need only look as far as your own utility bills or the gas station on the corner to realize that limited supplies of fuel are having a negative impact on all of us financially. If you’ve read the headlines, but are still confused or undecided about the debate, here is some background information to help you get engaged in this critical Michigan and world issue.
What is meant by the term Renewable Energy?
Energy generated from resources that are unlimited, rapidly replenished or naturally renewable such as wind, water, sun, geothermal, and refuse, rather than from the combustion of fossil fuels.
What are fossil fuels?
Fossil fuels are the nation’s principal source of electricity. Fossil fuels come in three major forms: coal, oil, and natural gas. Because fossil fuels are a finite resource and cannot be replenished once they are extracted and burned, they are not considered renewable.
What role does renewable energy play in Michigan’s economic future?
It remains to be seen, but experts predict that renewable energy and energy efficiency alone will add $4.5 trillion in value to the U.S. economy by 2030. Michigan has more automotive-related research talent than the other 49 states combined as well as an abundance of engineering talent and strong resources in wind, water, bio-fuels, and other energy sources. There are also numerous tool and die shops, which can be converted to produce wind turbines. For all of these reasons, and many more, we are considered to be well-positioned to be a national leader in new emerging energy industries.
What is Michigan’s educational community doing to help position Michigan as a powerhouse for renewable energy?
The University of Michigan, Wayne State University, and Michigan State University have collaborated to form the University Research Corridor (URC), a unique alliance that leverages their collective intellectual capital to attract knowledge economy businesses like renewable energy and alternative fuel. According to U of M President, Sue Coleman, the URC brings in 95% of all of the external research and development dollars that come into the state and conducts well over $1.3 billion in research activity. The URC is now investing up to $900,000 of its own resources in seed grants to speed up the development of “revolutionary but feasible” alternative energy research involving researchers at two or more of the URC universities.
What is the State of Michigan doing to ensure that Michigan has a key role in the industry?
Many states have enacted policies that mandate increased use of renewable energy as well as other policies that could reduce greenhouse gas emissions. To date, Michigan, has been among the least active states, but the state Legislature is now working to pass a Renewable Portfolio Standard.
What is a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS)?
RPS is a requirement that an electric power provider generate, or purchase, a specified percentage of the power it supplies/sells from renewable energy resources. Having an RPS guarantees a market for electricity generated from renewable energy resources.
Why is creating an RPS so important to Michigan’s ecological and economic future?
Because it creates an automatic market for renewable energy, an RPS dramatically increases the likelihood that companies within the energy industry will invest in building facilities and creating jobs within Michigan. In her Earth Day radio address, Governor Granholm characterized the need this way: "Passing an RPS is a critical first step to making Michigan a leader in this transformative industry. Companies that make alternative energy technology are looking to grow and expand in states that have made a commitment to use renewable sources for their energy needs.” She went on to say, “ The longer we go without an RPS, the more companies will choose places other than Michigan for their growth.”
What can I as an individual do to get involved?
The Legislature is working to pass a RPS. The state House has passed a comprehensive energy package, and the Governor is now working with the Senate to do the same. You can follow their progress through Michigan Legislature and tell your Senator how you feel about the issue.
Can I make my own investment in renewable energy to help create a market for it?
Yes. Many power suppliers across the country have created programs to allow and encourage their customers to purchase their energy from renewable resources. Here in Michigan, for example, Consumers Energy has their Green Generation program and DTE energy has a renewable energy option called Green Currents.
How can I learn more?
Here are some other great resources to stay educated on the role of renewable energy in Michigan: NextEnergy, Michigan Public Service Commission , and Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association.
When it comes to Michigan, renewable energy means jobs. BMN encourages you to get educated and get active on this critical economic and ecological issue.
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