Solar panel push endangers Michigan’s economy and environment

Michigan legislators have introduced three energy-related bills that threaten to worsen energy reliability. One would force Michigan into a premature transition away from reliable energy sources to renewables.

Rep. Laurie Pohutsky, D-Livonia, introduced House Bill 4760 on June 14. It would require the Michigan Public Service Commission to prioritize environmental conditions, affordability, and equity during its decision-making process.

House Bill 4759, introduced by Betsy Coffia, D-Traverse City, mandates that electric providers achieve a carbon-free energy portfolio of 100% by 2035 and each subsequent year. The bill includes exceptions for biomass.

House Bill 4761 was introduced by Rep. Abraham Aiyash, D-Hamtramck. The bill changes the standards of energy waste reduction for utilities.

These bills were packaged with House Bill 4760.

“There is no need for it,” said Jason Hayes, the Mackinac Center’s director of energy and environmental policy. “The notion that CO2 is necessarily bad is unscientific. People are myopically focused on CO2 and ignoring numerous problems of solar.”

These and other solar mandates reduce the reliability and affordability of the state’s energy grid while introducing a range of new environmental challenges.

The aggressive expansion of solar infrastructure uses up vast tracts of land, perpetuates destructive mining practices, and threatens Michigan wildlife. 

Will Young is a Michigan Capitol Confidential intern.