Michigan Gov. Whitmer signs executive order to create carbon neutral state by 2050

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order Wednesday to create the MI Healthy Climate Plan, which calls for 100 percent economic carbon neutrality by 2050.

With the 30 year goal, Michigan has become the ninth state to commit to full economic carbon neutrality, which Whitmer views as a means to protect public health and the environment while creating new, clean energy jobs.

“The science is clear – climate change is directly impacting our public health, environment, our economy, and our families,” Whitmer said. “This dangerous reality is already causing harm throughout Michigan, with communities of color and low-income Michiganders suffering disproportionately, which is why I’m taking immediate action to protect our state. We owe it to our children and grandchildren to leave them a cleaner, safer and healthier world. Through comprehensive and aggressive steps, we will combat the climate crisis by formally setting and relentlessly pursuing a goal of statewide decarbonization by 2050.”

Executive Directive 2020-10 also sets the state on the path to cutting greenhouse gas emissions. It calls for a 28 percent reduction below 1990 levels by 2025. The Department of the Treasury must also create and implement an Energy Transition Impact Project to help communities maintain critical services and employment as certain energy facilities are closed.

Members of the energy industry have already lodged their support firmly behind the measure, such as DTE Energy president and CEO Jerry Norcia.

“We applaud Governor Whitmer’s commitment to secure a clean energy future for Michigan,” Norcia said. “DTE Energy’s goal to achieve net zero in carbon and methane emissions will play an important role in helping the state achieve economy-wide solutions. Our customers can also play a part in accelerating carbon reduction milestones for the state through DTE Energy waste reduction/efficiency offerings and signing up for renewable energy through MIGreenPower.”

The Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), under the leadership of its Office of Climate and Energy, will be tasked with implementing the MI Healthy Climate Plan. In this, it will be assisted by the Department of Technology, Management, and Budget, which will make specific moves to increase energy efficiency and work towards carbon neutrality in new state buildings and facilities. An advisory council within EGLE will guide departmental planning, with members appointed by Whitmer to encompass various sectors, experiences, and expertise. All applications must be received before Nov. 1, 2020.