Governor Snyder Wants More Renewables, Less Coal In Michigan

Governor Rick Snyder says Michigan needs more renewable energy and less coal over the next decade.

As The Michigan Public Radio Network’s Jake Neher reports, the governor today Thursday outlined broad goals for energy policy between now and 2025.

Michigan’s current energy standards expire next year. And utilities are well on their way to meeting those goals in things like renewable production and energy efficiency.

Governor Snyder says it’s time to start talking about how to set new standards. He says part of that plan should be to cut down on coal burning.

“And I’m very excited to see that percentage going down very significantly over this next ten-year horizon,” he says.

Snyder says he’s concerned about pollution from coal-fired plants. He says Michigan can produce cleaner energy that doesn’t have to be shipped in from outside the state.

The governor admits it’ll be difficult for lawmakers to pass comprehensive energy legislation during an election year.