LANSING – A comprehensive bipartisan energy plan championed by State Representative
Jeff Mayes (D-Bay City) that will create
thousands of good-paying jobs and make Michigan a leader in the rapidly growing renewable energy industry was signed
into law today by Governor Jennifer M. Granholm.
"This is the kind of bold action we needed to take in order to move Michigan forward," said Mayes, vice-chair of the House Energy and Technology Committee. "We will soon be able to take control of our own energy needs and create thousands of green-collar jobs in the process. Putting the focus on reforming Michigan's energy standards is the best way to serve both our residents and our businesses."
The comprehensive plan signed into law today:
- Requires Michigan to increase the amount of electricity generated from clean, renewable sources such as wind and solar to 10 percent by 2015. Doing so will make Michigan competitive with nearly 30 other states that already have such a standard.
- Requires utilities to establish programs that help residents and businesses use electricity more efficiently, which will save consumers billions of dollars by reducing their usage.
- Fixes outdated rules to clear the way for construction of power plants needed to meet rising demands for electricity so that businesses will locate and expand in Michigan.
- Includes an income tax credit for working families and seniors to help with energy costs and tax credits for the purchase of energy-efficient appliances.
"This truly is a ground-breaking plan that will give our state the ability to attract key players in the expanding energy industry and create thousands of jobs that can't be outsourced," Mayes said. "I'm pleased that both the House and Senate were able to come to an agreement and enact this historic energy plan for Michigan. It just shows that by working together, we can establish a new foundation on which we can rebuild our economy."