Smart Vs. Poor Energy Policy: Innovation and Sustainability

We’ve already discussed what smart energy policy looks like with regard to our state’s economy and jobs as well as the impact it has on low-income Michigan families.  Energy policy also has a huge impact on local energy providers’ ability to innovate, grow, and develop new sustainable technologies to protect the environment, grow our economy, and create good jobs.

Smart Energy Policies, Smart Energy…

Energy policy impacts efforts to promote and improve innovation and sustainability in a number of ways:

• Electric Deregulation: As we’ve discussed at length, Michigan should take a balanced, reasoned approach to deregulation.  Full electric deregulation would represent a short-sighted move that could undermine the ability of Michigan’s energy companies to invest in sustainable and energy-efficient technologies.
• Renewable Energy: Common-sense standards vis-à-vis clean energy and sustainability will help secure a cleaner, healthier future while also making sure Michigan families and businesses continue to have affordable access to the reliable electricity they need.  Smart energy policies will ensure Michigan’s energy companies can continue to invest in developing renewable energies while still using traditional energy resources to meet growing demand.  
• Environmental Policy: From creating new jobs to protecting our environment, Michigan has a wide range of priorities. Smart energy policies prioritize both environmental stewardship and the economic needs of Michigan families, businesses, and other organizations.  
• Smart Grid/Automated Meters: The smart grid and smart meters are just two examples of the many energy innovations that AMP supports.  Smart grids promote efficiency by allowing consumers to better control their energy consumption, helping keep energy costs low and saving energy at the same time.  Smart energy policies should provide continued investment and development of these types of “smart” technologies.