LANSING – State Representative Pam Byrnes (D-Lyndon Township) 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.
"This plan gives our state the opportunity to appeal to the major players in the renewable energy fields," Byrnes said. "Making our own energy right here in Michigan will create good-paying jobs that can't be outsourced, and the money being spent abroad on oil can be reinvested in our communities. By passing this plan, the House can focus our own energies on getting our economy back on track and moving in the right direction."
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- Fixes outdated rules to clear the way for construction of power plants needed to meet rising demands for electricity so that businesses will locate and expand in Michigan.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.
"The plan passed by the House today is the step that we needed to take to get Michigan back at the top of its game," Byrnes said. "I applaud my colleagues in the House for working together to put our residents ahead of party interests."