LANSING – State Representative Mike Simpson (D-Jackson) today voted for a comprehensive bipartisan energy plan that will create thousands of good-paying jobs, save Michigan residents money and make our state a leader in the rapidly growing renewable energy industry.
"We need to bring jobs and investment to our communities, and that's exactly what this energy plan will do,"
Simpson said. "Michigan has the potential to become a leader in the renewable energy industry. We have to act now
– we can't keep waiting as jobs and opportunities for economic development pass us by. This plan will put us in
control of our own energy future."
The comprehensive plan:
- 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- Fixes outdated rules to clear the way for construction of power plants needed to meet rising demands for electricity so that businesses will locate and expand in Michigan.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.
Simpson will be holding a town hall forum in conjunction with the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Consumers Energy and other groups to explain in detail the comprehensive plan and answer questions from Jackson County residents.
"Buying energy from other states and countries would send tens of thousands of jobs elsewhere at a time when we
need them the most," Simpson said. "We can't let that happen. This forward-thinking plan will bring massive investment
to Michigan communities, creating good-paying jobs for our workers immediately and for years to come."