LANSING – State Representative Mary Valentine (D-Norton Shores) today voted in favor of 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.
"Passing this plan ensures the future availability of safe, reliable and affordable energy for Michigan businesses and consumers," Valentine said. "Everyone knows that Michigan is home to the hardest working residents anywhere. It's time to use our technological know-how, highly skilled workforce and gifted universities to make Michigan a magnet for 21st century employers."
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- Fixes outdated rules to clear the way for construction of power plants needed to meet rising demands for electricity so that businesses will locate and expand in Michigan.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.
"We have the potential here in west Michigan to become a leader in this emerging, high-tech industry," Valentine said. "These forward-thinking energy reforms will give companies the green light to set up shop and bring massive investment to our communities. This plan will help harness our potential and create good-paying jobs for our workers now and for years to come."