May 8, 2015 | By Barbara Vergetis Lundin

Michigan House Bill (HB) 4297 has been introduced by Representative Aric Nesbitt to revise some utilities regulations and a renewable energy mandate imposed by a 2008 law. The bill would allow energy generated from waste to qualify as renewable or advanced cleaner energy, modify renewable energy location requirements, and eliminate energy optimization programs.

Rep. Aric Nesbitt.

HB 4297 defines burning waste as renewable energy and repeals Michigan's energy efficiency programs. Further, it would terminate a related mandate that utilities must reduce the amount of electricity they produce each year by promoting and subsidizing customer energy optimization plans paid for with electricity bill surcharges.

"House Bill 4297 would be a major step backwards when it comes to reducing pollution and transitioning away from dirty sources of energy," said Lisa Wozniak, executive director of the Michigan League of Conservation Voters. "Redefining renewable energy to include the burning of tires will make us the laughing stock of the nation, and we call on legislators from both parties to reject Nesbitt's plan."

HB 4297 was referred to the House Energy Policy Committee earlier this week.

Another bill in the package (House Bill 4298) would repeal the limited electricity generation competition allowed by another related 2008 law, which restricted electricity generation competition to 10 percent of the commercial customers in large utilities' service areas. The bill would eliminate electric choice, prohibit self-implementation of rate increases, and require utilities to utilize a competitive bid process.

The Michigan League of Conservation Voters advocates for measures that protect consumers, reduce energy waste and ensure progress toward a cleaner energy future. One of those measures is the Powering Michigan's Future legislative package -- three bills that would double Michigan's renewable energy and energy efficiency standards.

"The Powering Michigan's Future legislative package will build on the success of our thriving clean energy sector -- creating jobs, reining in costs and protecting the health of Michigan kids, families and seniors," said Rep. Marcia Hovey-Wright. "With our clean energy policy expiring this year, it's time to set new, higher standards to ensure forward progress in our transition away from coal."

Hovey-Wright is requesting Nesbitt hold a hearing on the Powering Michigan's Future bills.

The package, consisting of House Bills 4055, 4518-4519, and Senate Bills 295-297, would increase Michigan's renewable energy standard to 20 percent by 2022; double the energy efficiency standard; eliminate the renewable energy surcharge; and control energy costs and ensure reliability and affordability.

For more:
- see the bill

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