Michigan launches MI Power Grid initiative to aid cleaner energy transition

Through the launch of the MI Power Grid Initiative last week, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) hope to ease the path for the state’s residents and businesses to embrace the transition to clean energy.

The initiative will gather information on such transitions into a central location, actively reach out to stakeholders to better integrate clean technologies and optimize grid investments in the state’s grid, to guarantee the transition keeps things reliable and affordable. According to the state government, this will, in turn, bring in new clean energy programs, advance energy infrastructure planning and update regulations for better service and reliability.

“Prioritizing clean energy in Michigan will help us grow our economy, create jobs, and protect our overall public health,” Whitmer said. “And if we’re going to call Michigan a leader in clean, reliable energy, we must update our state’s electrical grid. MI Power Grid will serve as a critical tool in helping us reach that goal and will ensure people and businesses have the resources they need to transition to clean energy. I’m ready and eager to work closely with the MPSC as we take further steps toward a more sustainable future.”

MI Power Grid will split off into numerous workgroups to work with various stakeholders and educate regarding the best adaptations for the energy industry. These will help fuel changes within the MPSC regarding regulations and utility programs.

“MI Power Grid will ensure Michigan residents and businesses are equipped with tools and information to receive the benefits of clean energy,” MPSC Chairman Sally Talberg said.

The initiative launches as Michigan’s older coal plants continue to shut down, only to be replaced by smaller, more widespread clean energy sources. The state said that a more modern electric grid could also lead to wider use of technologies such as electric vehicles and electricity storage.