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Clean Energy Future

Whether for transportation or life saving medical equipment, plasma televisions or street lights, we are all connected by our energy choices.  We're also connected by the impact of our choices on our children's health and the health of the planet.  Working for a new clean energy future and fighting global warming through sound energy policies are top priorities for Sierra Club in Michigan and across the nation.

In 2008 and 2009 decisions about the future of Michigan's energy options will be made in the State Capitol and around the state.  At least eight new or expanded coal-fired power plants are under consideration, with 2 air permits already out for public comment, competing directly with renewable energy sources like wind and solar.  Proposals to use everything from trash to trees to coal for fuel and electric generation are on the docket.   The Legislature and the Governor are at the heart of these debates, and your involvement is needed to get our state to a sound clean energy future.

Two proposed coal fired power plants now have air quality permits out for public comment.  Help Michigan make the right choice, and comment on these permits.

Please join us in the effort to build a clean energy future for Michigan.

Campaigns

Stop the Michigan Coal Rush
Stop the Michigan Coal Rush! ACT NOW: Wolverine Power Cooperative 600 MW proposed Rogers City coal plant air permit public comment period extended and new hearing set; Holland Board of Public Works proposed coal plant expansion permit released for comment, public hearing date is set. At least 8 new or expanded coal plants are proposed in Michigan today, making the Great Lakes State one of the coal industry’s top targets. Sierra Club is working to stop all proposed new or expanded coal plants in Michigan. Learn more about this work and how to join and support these efforts.

Clean Energy
In October Michigan took its first, long overdue step toward a green energy future and fighting climate change. Governor Granholm signed into law Public Acts 286 & 295 establishing requirements for energy efficiency and renewable electric generation of all electric providers in Michigan. While this was a good start, Michigan has much more to do to assure that we are creating both a clean energy future and the economic benefits this can bring. Find out more and how you can get involved in Energy 2!

Global Warming
Global Warming is already affecting Michigan in many ways, and the threat is growing. But our state is far behind many of other states when it comes to controling our contributions of greenhouse gases that threaten our children's future. Even though slow progress is being made, our Michigan leaders must be convinced to move faster and smarter to prevent worse damage to the planet. Learn what you can do and join our campaign!

Cool Cities Initiative
The Cool Cites campaign is a grassroots campaign designed to help citizens encourage their mayors to sign on to the U.S. Mayors climate protection agreement.

Renewable Energy
Twenty-five states now require renewable electricity generation, but Michigan is not among them. Legislation that passed the Michigan House in April requires electric providers to produce at least 10% of their energy from designated renewable energy sources by 2015, and to increase energy efficiency by 1% per year through conservation and eliminating waste. Not only will these requirements help reduce demand for new coal or nuclear plants, they’ll keep energy costs down, help fight global warming, and create jobs in Michigan. Now it is the Michigan Senate’s turn to act. Your help is needed to see strong clean energy legislation passed this spring – go here to find out how you can help!