Governor Whitmer Addresses Energy Policy in 'What's Next Address'

LANSING, MI - Governor Whitmer outlined policy priorities for the fall today in her “What’s Next Address.” Whitmer outlined key priorities to build out more clean energy, tackle climate change, and empower the Michigan Public Service Commission to address climate, equity, and health impacts in its regulation of big utilities. 

The following is a reaction from Derrell Slaughter, Michigan Clean Energy Advocate at NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council): 

“I agree with Governor Whitmer that Michigan must sprint toward cleaner air, lower energy costs, and growing jobs in the renewable energy industry. It is imperative for the Michigan legislature to step up and take decisive action on climate and clean energy legislation. The urgency to act is compounded by the disproportionate burden that power outages, high bills, and climate change place on communities of color, particularly Black communities.  

“Let us seize this opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to combating climate change and ensure a sustainable, just, and prosperous future for our state. If the Michigan legislature acts swiftly and decisively on climate and clean energy legislation, we can make a lasting difference for generations to come.” 

NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council) is an international nonprofit environmental organization with more than 3 million members and online activists. Established in 1970, NRDC uses science, policy, law, and people power to confront the climate crisis, protect public health, and safeguard nature. NRDC has offices in New York City, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Bozeman, MT, Beijing and Delhi (an office of NRDC India Pvt. Ltd). Visit us at www.nrdc.org and follow us on Twitter @NRDC.