After many months of legislative negotiations, Governor Whitmer signed SB271, SB273 and SB502 into law on November 28. Collectively these three bills transform Michigan’s energy policy by establishing a 100% clean energy standard by 2040, increasing the state’s energy waste reduction (EWR) standard and expanding the purview of the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC).
See below for more details of these three new laws:
SB 271 (Sen. Geiss): Sets renewable energy and clean energy goals
Increases renewable portfolio standard
Mandates electric investor-owned utilities generate or acquire renewable energy (through resources or credits) of at least 15% through 2027, 50% by 2030 and 60% by 2035…
Where are we with training a new workforce?
Building and energy codes are improving with each edition published so that occupants of new buildings have an increasingly healthier, safer environment, and a reduction in energy consumption and carbon impact. Highlighted in conversations with building officials and builders across the Midwest is the fact that skilled workers are retiring. Young people looking for a career path, or those looking for a career change, are not aware of the career possibilities in the construction industry that support healthier buildings. How many high schoolers say they want a career as a building inspector or as a HERS rater? Are there enough educational opportunities for those interested in these career paths?…
On October 19, the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition (ICJC) and the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce celebrated clean energy as they came together to co-host the second annual Illinois Clean Energy Champion Awards (CECA). This event, which aims to recognize Illinois-based companies, nonprofit organizations and governmental units that are working to help make Illinois a national leader in clean energy, showcases the best of the collaborative spirit between business, energy and environmental communities that is needed to tackle the global climate crisis and facilitate a just transition to a clean energy economy.
Attendees at the 2023 CECA event. Credit: ICJC
Winners of this year’s CECA were announced in five categories:
1. Nonprofit/…
