By Andi Anderson
Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently celebrated a major clean energy milestone for Michigan. The Biden-Harris Administration awarded a federal grant to Wolverine Power Cooperative, a Michigan-based energy provider, through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
This funding not only aims to lower energy costs but also supports the revival of the Palisades Nuclear Plant, a key player in Michigan’s energy landscape. With this investment, over 300,000 homes, businesses, and farms are expected to benefit, particularly in rural communities.
Governor Whitmer emphasized the collaboration between state and federal agencies, noting that these efforts will create clean, reliable energy and help stabilize energy costs for Michigan residents.
The reopening of the Palisades plant is also projected to protect 600 union jobs and create an additional 1,100 jobs in the surrounding community.
Wolverine Power Cooperative, which provides electricity to rural Michigan, will use this funding to drive clean energy expansion as part of the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program under the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service.
This program represents the largest rural electrification investment since the 1936 Rural Electrification Act and is a major step toward a sustainable energy future.
The Palisades Nuclear Plant, which shut down in May 2022, played a critical role in Michigan’s energy infrastructure. The plant, once producing over 800 megawatts of clean energy, is now set to be revived through both federal and state funding efforts. The reopening will not only support jobs but also contribute to Michigan’s energy independence.
In addition to clean energy investments, the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law have fueled more than $26 billion in clean energy projects across Michigan, creating over 21,000 jobs.
These initiatives are part of Michigan’s broader strategy to lead the nation in clean energy, with 124,000 clean energy workers already employed in the state.
Governor Whitmer remains committed to expanding clean energy, securing jobs, and ensuring Michigan’s rural communities have access to affordable and reliable electricity for decades to come.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Michigan, Energy