Businesses celebrate as Michigan finalizes ambitious 100% clean electricity law

Ceres and major Michigan companies applaud Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for signing landmark clean energy legislation into law today, following its passage in the Michigan legislature earlier this month. Anchored by a commitment to achieve 100% clean energy by 2040, the legislative package also includes a strong energy waste reduction plan and other important measures supported by Michigan businesses. 

“Michigan has established itself today as a leader in the clean energy economy by finalizing one of the most ambitious clean electricity standards in the U.S.” said Alli Gold Roberts, senior director of state policy, Ceres. “Major businesses strongly supported bold legislation to clean the electric grid and make clear that the state is fully open for business. The legislation signed today marks a strong first step toward realizing that vision in Michigan. Ceres and the companies we work with look forward to supporting the implementation process and continued efforts to ensure the state meets its climate, economic, and environmental justice goals.” 

Ceres has worked with companies and investors to support Michigan’s clean energy legislation throughout the ongoing legislative session. Companies increasingly support clean energy policies not only to reduce climate pollution that threatens their operations, but because they bring significant business and economic benefits. According to a recent analysis conducted by 5 Lakes Energy and the MI Energy Innovation Business Council, this legislation will create nearly 160,000 jobs, increase Michigan’s GDP 2.5% by 2050, and save households $145 in energy costs annually by 2035. 

“For more than three decades, Bell’s Brewery has understood that operating sustainably is critical for the long-term resilience of our business, and we have seen positive effects as a result," said Carrie Yunker, executive vice president, Bell’s Brewery. “We believe a potent mix of public policy and private investment will bring similar benefits to Michigan’s entire economy. We are grateful that Michigan’s climate and economic goals will now be supported by a 100% clean energy standard that will bring new investment to our communities, reduce costs for both households and businesses, and cut dangerous pollution that damages the air and the climate.” 

“We applaud Governor Whitmer and the Michigan legislature for turning ambition into action to help achieve their decarbonization goals,” said Paul Camuti, Executive Vice President and Chief Technology and Sustainability Officer at Trane Technologies. “These bold steps will help lower greenhouse gas emissions while ensuring residents and businesses can fully benefit from high efficiency products, such as heat pumps. As an innovator of sustainable climate solutions, we strive daily to create a positive lasting impact on our planet – this legislation makes that even more possible for the 400+ Trane Technologies’ employees who call Michigan home.” 

"As Michigan faces the accelerating effects of a changing climate, we are proud that the state is taking aggressive action to adopt the proven technologies necessary to build a low-carbon energy future,” said Jim MacInnes, P.E., chairman, Crystal Mountain Resort. “We thank Michigan lawmakers and Gov. Whitmer for finalizing a 100% clean electricity plan that will protect this beautiful part of the country, grow our economy, and ensure that our state remains an attractive destination for future generations." 

In September, 15 businesses signed a letter to lawmakers and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declaring their support for an accelerated transition to 100% clean electricity that prioritizes jobs, equity, and affordability, and that helps Michigan maximize recent federal climate and clean energy investments.    

“Passing legislation to achieve 100% clean energy while prioritizing affordability, equity, and job creation is an important step toward building a more just net zero economy that will enhance the vitality, competitiveness, and growth of our state,” the letter said. It was signed by Bell’s Brewery, Brewery Vivant, Broad Leaf Brewery + Spirits, CleanCapital, Crystal Mountain Resort, IKEA US, New Belgium Brewing, Nexamp, REI, Sealed, Siemens, Trane Technologies, Uplight, Walker-Miller Energy Services, and Worthen Industries.   

The climate package will codify into law many aspects of Gov. Whitmer’s MI Healthy Climate Plan, which was released in 2022 and was also welcomed by Michigan businesses as an important tool to guide climate, public health, and economic development policy in the state. 

About Ceres

Ceres is a nonprofit organization working with the most influential capital market leaders to solve the world’s greatest sustainability challenges. Through our powerful networks and global collaborations of investors, companies and nonprofits, we drive action and inspire equitable market-based and policy solutions throughout the economy to build a just and sustainable future. For more information, visit ceres.org and follow @CeresNews.