Michigan Clean Energy Future Now rally calls for policy change - Lansing State Journal

Michigan Clean Energy Future Now rally calls for policy change

Viewpoint: Michigan lawmakers must pass policies to address climate change

One of the largest gatherings of climate activists in Michigan recently took place at the state Capitol, and I was part of it.

As a student at Michigan State University, I heard about the Michigan Clean Energy Future Now rally in September and felt compelled to add my voice in support of state lawmakers passing clean energy legislation that will help us tackle climate change.

Mom, if you are reading this, don’t worry – I didn’t miss any classes.

Participating in the event alongside hundreds of my fellow students was empowering. We packed the galleries of Michigan's Senate and House where lawmakers are discussing bills that will:

- Create a 100% carbon-free electricity standard and include more clean, renewable energy like wind and solar.
- Establish policies that conserve energy to begin with, providing savings to customers.
- Empower and require the Michigan Public Service Commission to regulate and hold big utilities accountable for equity, health, affordability and climate impacts.

I urged lawmakers to pass Senate bills 271-272 and 502 and House bills 4759- 4761.

We need to act on climate change now. The impacts can’t be ignored and it's our future on the line.

Most of us were impacted by poor air quality off and on this summer because of the Canadian wildfires, or we’ve experienced a flooded basement due to harsh storms driven by climate change this year. Clearly the status quo isn’t working when Michiganders frequently lose power, even on sunny days.

We spend $18 billion a year importing coal and gas to power our homes and businesses, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. What do we have to show for it? The highest rates in the Midwest and the worst service. Not to mention the ramifications burning coal and gas have on public health.

By comparison, the legislation Michigan lawmakers are considering will help lower household energy costs by $145 annually, according to a recent analysis, while significantly reducing dangerous pollution in our air and water.

It’s time to hold Big Utilities accountable and make the transition to clean renewable energy. Let’s not make the same mistake of previous generations and let them call all the shots.

Passing a 100% carbon-free electricity standard and doing more in terms of energy efficiency is the best thing for Michiganders. And having a Michigan Public Service Commission that can regulate big energy utility companies on factors such as equity, health, affordability and climate impacts is a surefire way to put power back in the hands of the people.

Michiganders deserve better than the status quo, which is why I went to the state Capitol and told lawmakers to fight to reduce climate change and put our state on a path toward clean energy. I urge others to join me.

Huzaifah Nadeem is a sophomore at Michigan State University majoring in civil engineering.