New Year’s resolutions are all about improving lives. And you can improve the life of all Michiganders with these five simple 2020 Michigan energy resolutions. Check them out—and help make 2020 our state’s best year ever for advancing reliable, affordable, sustainable energy.
A group of Michigan lawmakers introduced legislation they are calling the “Powering Michigan Forward” package to secure incentives for private solar in our state. Despite the misleading title, these bills would move Michigan backward, not forward, when it comes to renewable energy.
There could be good news ahead for Michigan energy consumers. We’ve already experienced the first taste of winter, but more moderate temperatures are forecast to return and—best of all—natural gas costs are predicted to fall once again this year, just as they have since 2008.
You’ve probably heard that DTE has raised eyebrows across Michigan and the entire country by announcing an ambitious new plan. DTE is going beyond its commitment of 80% carbon reduction to a new goal of reaching for “net zero” carbon emissions by 2050.
We recently discussed some of the ways local energy providers work to support local communities by participating in an array of community-focused projects and initiatives. Today, we want to take some time to recognize some other ways local providers are giving back to help support everything from good old summertime fun to wildlife restoration and environmental education to economic and neighborhood development in communities across the state.
Summer is heating up—and with the higher temperatures come increased energy use and greater demand. All of these factors can have a significant impact on the rates we pay for electricity. That’s why now is a good time to take a look back at some of our previous discussions on rates and infrastructure investments.
Building a brighter, cleaner energy future for all Michiganders isn’t just an investment in upgrading our state’s energy sector or electric infrastructure. It’s an investment in jobs, in local businesses, and in our communities.
Aside from delivering reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean power for Michigan homes, businesses, and industries, one of the most important things our local energy providers do is support local communities across the state through a number of civic engagement and community development projects.
Just below our feet runs a complex network of pipelines that make up our natural gas infrastructure. These natural gas pipes deliver clean, affordable energy to Michigan homes and businesses 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The 2019 Detroit Regional Chamber’s Mackinac Policy Conference brought together leaders from business, politics and policy, education, energy, philanthropy, and more to discuss the major issues facing Michigan and how we can best come together as a state to support and advance efforts to address these issues.
With recent investments from the Big Three automakers, Michigan is set to lead the country in the development of electric vehicles (EVs). By some estimates, up to 36 percent of the vehicles on Michigan roads will be EVs by 2030.
The first official day of summer may not be until June 21, but for most of Michigan it sure feels like summer is already upon us. As temperatures rise, so too does our energy use as we try to beat the heat.
Responsible regulation is one of the foundational pillars of Michigan’s energy market. A well-regulated energy market is absolutely critical for Michigan. Responsible regulation helps keep energy reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean and sustainable—all while ensuring fairness for all Michigan homes and businesses.
Michigan is in the middle of a clean energy transformation—one that aligns with the recommendations of the international scientific community.
Private investments by the Big Three automakers—General Motors, Ford, and Fiat Chrysler—are poised to ignite new growth for Michigan manufacturing and spur the production of electric vehicles in our state.
Energy and Michigan businesses go hand in hand. Local energy companies depend on Michigan vendors and suppliers to help create, distribute, and supply affordable, and reliable energy to all Michiganders. AMP knows how important these businesses are, and that’s why we’re celebrating them on our Community page!
We recently discussed how Michigan hit a major milestone in the road to a cleaner energy future with two local energy companies releasing their respective integrated resource plans (IRPs).
Earth Day is just around the corner, marking its 49th year. The annual event got its start in the U.S. in 1970 and is now celebrated in more than 190 countries!
Michigan is in the midst of a total energy transformation. Our 2016 energy law—passed with overwhelming bipartisan support—established a solid framework for policymakers, regulators, and local energy companies to better plan for and meet the energy needs of all Michiganders.
Remind me—Is PURPA short for Purple? Nope—PURPA is the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978. In our last post, we discussed why PURPA was created and how Michigan relies on this outdated policy today.
Michigan is on the right path to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future—one that makes sense for Michigan’s unique climate, geography, and economy.
Michigan’s most vulnerable citizens, including seniors, children, and low-income households, are the ones who have felt the most bitter sting from this year’s unprecedented cold snaps. That’s what makes energy assistance programs like the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) so important.
You’ve probably never heard of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978—PURPA—unless you work for the federal government or a local energy company. Even then, chances are slim that you understand this law and the substantial impact it has on energy prices for Michigan consumers.
Wind energy is already an important part of Michigan’s energy mix. The role it plays will only continue to increase in significance as we continue to pursue our state’s clean energy and carbon reduction goals in the coming years.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer laid out a broad, ambitious policy agenda in her first State of the State address on February 12. She painted a picture of the growing challenges we face in Michigan, put forth ideas for how we can address those challenges head on, and highlighted her high-level priorities for 2019 and beyond.
It’s a new year and plenty of new opportunities to strengthen Michigan’s energy future lie ahead. In 2019, local energy companies are making great progress toward a set of resolutions that bolster the reliability, affordability, and sustainability of our energy supply.
Believe it or not, it’s about to get even colder in Michigan. The polar vortex has been described as “brutal,” “dangerous,” and even “the coldest weather in a generation.” We can hold our own when it comes to winter weather, but the storm currently whipping its way through the Midwest is no joke.
Local Michigan energy companies are continuing to diversify our all-of-the-above energy mix. As coal-fired plants continue to close their doors, Michigan and our Midwestern neighbors are capitalizing on innovative ways to prevent a potential energy deficit. Natural gas is an affordable, reliable and cleaner way to provide the energy our state needs to operate. How are we harnessing the power of natural gas? The NEXUS pipeline is playing a big role!
Who doesn’t love the sights, sounds, and smells that mark this time of year? All those festivities can drive up your energy costs, though. That’s why AMP is sharing some quick tips to help you manage your holiday energy use.
A lot of misconceptions are swirling around wind energy in Michigan. So we’re bringing you Wednesday Wind Fact Checks. This series will bring you three quick fact checks about wind power each week so you can get the real scoop on this incredible renewable resource in Michigan.
Sometimes when we’re talking about energy, it gets difficult to keep track of all those crazy acronyms. Today, we’re throwing another one into the mix—MPSC.
Halloween is here and monsters are lurking about—just not the ones you may be thinking of. Net metering is a ghoulish policy being pushed by out-of-state activists, and it could hurt Michigan’s energy future.
It’s no surprise that delivering affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy safely across Michigan takes a lot of careful planning. The 2016 energy law set Michigan on a path of smart energy planning that changes how Michigan does energy.
When the leaves start to change color and the weather turns cooler, it is the perfect time to make a few small changes that will help you manage your energy costs, while preparing your home for the frigid Michigan winters. Check out AMP’s top 5 energy saving tips for fall, and check off the ones that you’re going to implement!
The sun can be a powerful source of energy. However, there are better ways to harness solar energy than others.
Halloween is around the corner, and while ghosts, monsters, and vampires are scary, there’s something much more frightening lurking in the shadows… outdated energy infrastructure!
To keep up with our energy needs, our electric infrastructure and technology has to adapt and evolve. That’s why a technologically advanced grid is so important to our energy future, including reduced energy costs and energy usage. Here are a few frequently asked questions about smart grids and safety.
The year is flying by and Michigan’s current legislative session will be wrapping up before we know it. Michigan has made significant strides in building an affordable and reliable all-of-the-above energy mix following the guidelines established in the 2016 energy law.
Michigan has unpredictable weather. Just last week, the Wolverine state saw NINE tornados, and more storms are likely this week. Severe weather can come with downed power lines and outages, and it’s important to be prepared so you can stay safe. Here are just a few tips.
The 2016 energy law established a path toward a more sustainable energy future, and renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydro are critical ingredients in the mix.
The primary elections have come and gone, and Michigan is one step closer to determining what the legislature—and our state’s policies on various issues—will look like for the next several years.
This week, we’re celebrating the biggest victory for Michigan energy in recent history: the 2016 Energy Law.
Summer is in full swing and there is lots to do and see in Michigan. Our state has a lot to offer, but without affordable, reliable and sustainable energy, Michiganders would not be able to take full advantage of this summer fun. Take a peek below to see some of our favorite ways to celebrate—each of which are powered by homegrown Michigan energy!
Michigan boasts some of the most stunning lakes and rivers in the United States. These beautiful waters are more than just backdrop for a summer day’s recreation—they power Michigan homes and businesses.
Legislators in Lansing work on a wide variety of policies from energy to healthcare to finance and more. Nobody can be an expert on every single issue, which is why committees are critical in helping legislators hone in on certain issues.
AMP is providing this printable checklist you can put on your refrigerator—or anywhere else that’s convenient—to help you and your family check off all of the ways you’re saving energy this summer!
Continuing with our infrastructure focus, it’s #TimetoBuild Michigan’s energy infrastructure. Today we’re taking a closer look at what that means for renewable energy in our state.
It’s National Infrastructure Week, and the Alliance for Michigan Power is celebrating Michigan’s unique energy infrastructure, and what it takes to create the right energy mix to power our state.
We know natural gas brings environmental benefits—like how it burns much cleaner than coal and oil. In fact, using natural gas as a substitute has reduced power-plant carbon emissions to the lowest level in 30 years.
Every day, Michigan legislators in Lansing introduce, debate, and enact policies that impact Michiganders across the state. Issues from tax policy, to criminal justice, to education—and, yes, energy—are in their hands.
Before a local energy company can build a new plant, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) must deem the plant necessary—as part of the energy company’s integrated resource plan (IRP) to keep energy costs both efficient and fair for Michigan consumers. Last week, the MPSC issued a “Certificate of Necessity” allowing DTE Energy to start building a natural gas plant in East China in St. Clair County.
Michigan’s energy future is looking brighter, cleaner, and more reliable—thanks to the decision by the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) to issue a Certificate of Necessity for a new, state-of-the-art natural gas plant in St. Clair County.
High levels of carbon emissions spell bad news for the environment, and there isn’t a single silver bullet for addressing the problem. Reducing carbon emissions is crucial to keeping energy production and use sustainable for the future—especially as our world continues to develop greater dependency on digital tools, electronic devices, and automated processes. It’s also necessary for a healthy environment.
Generating and transmitting electricity is a complicated process that requires careful calibration. Among many factors, energy has to be generated at the precise moment you want to use it. That means the more people who are trying to use energy at the same time (demand), the more difficult it is to supply—and that can increase the cost.
Investing in an all-of-the-above energy strategy means investing in Michigan’s energy future. Natural gas, hydro, wind, solar, and nuclear all work together in different ways to support Michigan’s energy needs.
This spring, clean up your energy usage with these top 10 energy efficiency tips! There are many ways you can proactively manage energy costs in your home or business that don’t require a lot of extra work—and the less energy we all use, the easier it is to keep energy reliable, affordable, and sustainable for everyone.
No policy decision affecting how Michigan produces and uses energy is made overnight. In fact, there is a lot of behind-the-scenes work that goes into keeping energy affordable, reliable, and sustainable.
March Madness is descending on college basketball fans nationwide, and we’re prepping our bracket too—our Michigan Energy March Madness bracket!
When people think about politics, Washington, D.C., oftentimes comes to mind. But what about Lansing? The reality is, many of the policies that affect Michiganders’ daily lives the most are decided in the state legislature, particularly when it comes to energy policy.
The federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, plays a crucial role in helping those families make it through the winter safely.
In his final State of the State, Governor Snyder kicked things off by touting the improvements Michigan has made under his leadership since taking office in 2011
Michigan is proud to be energy independent and, with the help of responsible regulation, we can keep it that way.
Osborne Transformer Corporation, a third-generation, family-owned business, has manufactured...
States like Michigan that use a variety of energy sources are best positioned to meet these goals.
Many Michigan families are trimming trees, wrapping presents, and making spirits bright in preparation for the holidays.
Wind energy is an increasingly viable energy source. Mixed with other sources of energy, wind power can bolster reliability and variety in Michigan’s energy supply.
Choosing Michigan means choosing energy policies that prioritize Michigan jobs, drive our economy, and support our schools, manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, environment, and much more.
As we make the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future, there’s no doubt solar power will be a critical piece of the energy puzzle. We need the right policies in place and the right approach to ensure everyone can benefit from this renewable energy resource.
Temperatures continue to drop as we head further into fall, which can only mean one thing: winter really IS coming.
The results are conclusive: once complete, the NEXUS pipeline will be an important resource for powering Michigan jobs, boosting local economies, and keeping our energy reliable.
Storm season in Michigan is upon us. Of course, what season isn’t storm season in Michigan?
After Lansing passed pivotal energy legislation last year, the non-partisan Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) was tasked with implementing various policy changes established by the new law.
Technology now accounts for 202,000 jobs in our state, a number comparable to tourism and other prominent sectors of the economy.
Implementing 2016's landmark energy law continues to be a top priority in Lansing.
School is back in session, reminding us how strong local energy providers and strong local schools add up to much more than we often realize.
Our future energy generation will include a range of fuel sources like solar, wind, nuclear, and, increasingly, natural gas.
Summer temperature spikes can put a strain on our electric grid and on your energy budget. Try our tips and tricks for managing summer temps and becoming an energy efficient all-star!
June 21 may have marked the first official day of summer, but for some parts of Michigan, the weather’s just starting to heat up. With the sun out in full force, it’s a good time to talk about this clean energy resource — and how Michigan’s local energy providers are making it work for our state, where the sun doesn’t always shine as brightly as in some other parts of the country.
Michigan’s energy supply chain extends far beyond the local energy providers that generate and distribute power to homes and businesses. A broad range of other businesses across the state play crucial roles in keeping energy affordable, reliable, and sustainable for all of us.
There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to electric rates in our state.
To keep up with our energy needs, our electric infrastructure and technology has to adapt and evolve. That’s why a technologically advanced grid is so important to our energy future, including reduced energy costs and energy usage. Here are a few frequently asked questions about smart grids and safety.
