By Rick Pluta, Michigan Public Radio Network
East Lansing, MI – Rick Pluta, Michigan Public Radio Network
East Lansing, MI
Governor Granholm says she is ready to approve permits for utilities that get federal grants to build coal-fired power plants that store carbon gasses below ground.
The governor ordered new coal plant permits to be delayed while environmental regulators review the requests.
She wants regulators to consider whether there are more environmentally friendly ways to generate electricity for Michigan homes and businesses.
She says her administration is in discussions with utilities, and she wants them to apply for federal energy grants for developing carbon capture systems.
Utility officials confirmed the negotiations are taking place.
But they warn that carbon capture technology is still in the research stage.
They say waiting on that will further delay building power plants the state will need once the recession ends.