In a bold step forward, Michigan passes clean energy standard, committing to 100% clean energy portfolio by 2040
DETROIT – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed into law a clean energy standard that puts Michigan on the path to 100% clean energy by 2040, joining several states that have committed to 100% clean or renewable energy. The standard requires Michigan electric providers to achieve an 80% clean energy portfolio from 2035 through 2039 and 100% by 2040.
“Michigan has cemented itself as a climate leader by passing an ambitious clean energy standard that will improve air quality, protect public health, and create jobs,” said Wibke Heymach, Senior Midwest Regional Policy Manager at Clean Air Task Force. “As climate change continues to threaten communities and local economies, from flooding to crop loss to toxic algae blooms in the Great Lakes, we must decarbonize our power sector so we can decarbonize our economy. This landmark legislation is a huge step forward for the state, as it promotes a portfolio of clean energy technologies that reduce power plant emissions while protecting electricity reliability and affordability. CATF applauds the state legislature and Governor Whitmer’s leadership to expand Michigan’s clean energy portfolio and put the state on track to reach 100% clean energy by 2040. We also look forward to working with the state to improve the law, such as by not considering trash incineration a renewable resource.”
“Michigan joins a growing number of states committed to 100% clean electricity, and that’s good news for not just Michiganders, but for national progress to address climate change and improve public health,” said Jeremy Tarr, U.S. State Policy Director at Clean Air Task Force. “Clean energy standards allow states to decarbonize their economies using an array of clean technologies — including renewables, nuclear, and power plants with carbon capture — that provide affordable, reliable electricity. State leadership, such as that demonstrated by Governor Whitmer and the Michigan legislature, is critical for advancing policies that address climate change, strengthen communities, and boost economic opportunities.”
To learn how states can unlock funding for climate action through the Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, visit CATF’s Implementation Resource Hub.
Press Contact
Samantha Sadowski, Communications Manager, U.S., ssadowski@catf.us, +1 202-440-1717
About Clean Air Task Force
Clean Air Task Force (CATF) is a global nonprofit organization working to safeguard against the worst impacts of climate change by catalyzing the rapid development and deployment of low-carbon energy and other climate-protecting technologies. With 25 years of internationally recognized expertise on climate policy and a fierce commitment to exploring all potential solutions, CATF is a pragmatic, non-ideological advocacy group with the bold ideas needed to address climate change. CATF has offices in Boston, Washington D.C., and Brussels, with staff working virtually around the world. Visit catf.us and follow @cleanaircatf.
