PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, April 12, 2023
CONTACT: Sarah Tresedder, sarah.tresedder@sierraclub.org, 906-869-4167
A Clean Energy Future is Possible with a Plan
Sierra Club Welcomes Senate Introduction of the “Clean Energy Future Plan”
Lansing, MI - Today, Senate Majority Floor Leader, Sam Singh, and Senator Sue Shink introduced a new clean energy bill package that would commit Michigan to a more sustainable and prosperous future. The announcement comes as the MI Healthy Climate Conference wraps up in Detroit, ending the two day event that brought together stakeholders to achieve the goals set out in Governor Whitmer’s MI Healthy Climate Plan.
“Climate change intersects with key challenges facing Michigan. The bill package introduced today comes at a critical juncture as communities across the state grapple with real impacts of climate change, an unreliable grid, and unaffordable energy costs,” said Tim Minotas, Deputy Legislative and Political Director of the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter. “Now is the time to lead with climate solutions so that we build a stronger, more prosperous, and equitable future for Michiganders.”
The bill package includes plans to phase out coal-fired plants by 2030, develop a 100% clean energy standard by 2035, increase energy efficiency, decarbonize homes and businesses, and support farmers who rent land to solar farms. The plan would also give the Michigan Public Service Commission authority to mandate stronger action from utilities to address climate and equity. .
“The Sierra Club looks forward to working with legislators to promote true renewable energy solutions,.” said Christy McGillivray, Legislative and Political Director, “ This bill package is a strong signal that we are moving toward a more resilient and sustainable future for Michigan, and we will work hard to ensure that the final outcome includes the best possible support for real renewable energy sources instead of false solutions like fracked gas and unproven incineration technologies .”
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The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 4 million members and supporters nationwide, and over 150,000 in Michigan. In addition to creating opportunities for people of all ages, levels and locations to have meaningful outdoor experiences, the Sierra Club works to safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and litigation. For more information, visit http://www.sierraclub.org