MARQUETTE, Mich. (WLUC) – U.P. energy providers are reacting to an energy report released by the Michigan Public Service Commission.
Michigan’s new clean energy laws would require the state to reach 100% renewable energy by 2040.
The report suggests Upper Michigan would face challenges reaching those commitments by following pathways set in the Lower Peninsula.
Upper Michigan Energy Resources Corporation Spokesperson Brendan Conway says lawmakers and energy providers should keep the report in mind moving forward.
“What it highlighted, and I think the authors of the report would note, there’s no simple solution,” Conway said. “There’s no one solution and we’re all going to continue to have these important discussions in the years moving ahead.”
Some Republican U.P. lawmakers are citing the report as evidence for the passing of the “McBroom Amendment.”
The amendment would allow the natural gas generators in Negaunee and Baraga Townships to function until their projected end of life in 2050.
In a statement, Sen. Ed McBroom (R-38th State Senate District) says in part:
“The Upper Peninsula has been a leader in reducing emissions in its power sector. It is time that Michigan energy policy acknowledges what we have accomplished in the U.P. and pass this amendment to ensure that our energy security is not jeopardized.”
Conway says UMERC’s priority is bringing consistent and affordable energy to its customers.
“What we’ve found, when our customers flip on that light switch, when they turn on their oven, their heat kicks on in a cold stretch like this, they want to make sure that’s there,” Conway said. “We’re always going to be focused on that: affordable, reliable and clean energy.”
We will continue to update you on further actions taken by lawmakers regarding the report.
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