The Michigan Council on Climate Solutions, experts and stakeholders, working under the leadership of the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE), have proposed recommendations to Governor Gretchen Whitmer that will ensure Michigan’s place in a greener, healthier future. The draft Michigan Healthy Climate Plan helps position the state to be a leader in the clean energy and advanced automotive transition, and builds on progress the state, private industry and numerous local communities are making toward achieving economy-wide carbon neutrality by 2050.

            The draft plan provides a guide for the state in boosting renewable energy, energy efficiency and electric transportation as Michigan grows its clean energy economy; the fastest-growing sector in Michigan. Acting quickly to benefit from federal infrastructure dollars and investment from the private sector will also help position Michigan as a leader in low-carbon ventures.

            The Ecology Center participated in several working groups that helped develop the core recommendations in the draft plan. “The draft Michigan Healthy Climate Plan provides a solid foundation for state action to address climate change, including strong recommendations for investing in renewable energy, electric vehicle infrastructure, and expanding transit,” says Charles Griffith, Climate and Energy Program director for the Ecology Center.

            The plan includes a goal of 50 percent renewable energy by 2030 and a phase-out of coal by 2035, but should set a goal for 100 percent carbon-free electricity by 2035 in line with federal goals, and an earlier phase-out of coal, while also supporting the equitable transition off of fossil fuels.

            Support is encouraged for additional strengthening during the public comment period and listening sessions that EGLE is hosting. Public comment on the plan is open through February 14. EGLE will host a virtual listening session where oral comments will be recorded from 6 to 8 p.m., February 8. Email comments or suggested changes to EGLE at [email protected] or attend a listening session at which everyone will be given an opportunity to give feedback verbally at bit.ly/3zYkU9a or 636-651-3142 (conference code 374288). Comments can be made on any item in the draft plan or suggestions can be shared on items not covered. The draft Michigan Healthy Climate Plan can be found on EGLE’s Office of Climate and Energy website.

For more info, visit EcoCenter.org.