Tri-City Sun

State Representative Matthew Bierlein has emphasized the importance of maintaining energy grid reliability and affordability in Michigan. He expressed concern over restrictive green energy laws potentially limiting options for consumers.

Bierlein praised U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright's decision to delay the closure of the J.H. Campbell coal-fired power plant in West Michigan for 90 days. The plant was initially scheduled to be shut down this month.

"We must continue to recognize the importance of safeguarding American energy production," said Bierlein, representing Vassar. "We can’t let political agendas get in the way of common sense. Decisions like this are critical for people, families, and small business owners who count on facilities like these for reliable and affordable energy."

Bierlein has been advocating for practical policies at the state level that ensure a diverse energy portfolio for Michigan, aiming to protect reliability while considering economic impacts on residents. He recently supported legislation granting local communities more authority over siting large-scale wind and solar projects.

Previously enacted laws during the 2023-24 legislative term had transferred significant decision-making power to the Michigan Public Service Commission, reducing local input.

The Legislature is also considering bills that would offer tax incentives for small modular nuclear reactor research and development, as well as grants to advance nuclear and hydrogen energy research within Michigan.

Bierlein cited a report from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), which identified Michigan’s energy grid as having the highest risk nationwide. The report indicated that Michigan's system operator is considered the least reliable in its region and across the country. According to NERC, new renewable energy mandates could further compromise reliability over the next decade.

"We are seeing a consistent demand for reliable energy and troubling signs that Michigan may not be able to keep up due to policies the state has undertaken," Bierlein noted. "Before we put all our eggs in the green energy basket, we must ensure grid infrastructure is sufficient and we aren’t seeing rolling outages like we have seen elsewhere when the push for renewable energy has outpaced reliable delivery."

He concluded by stressing that Michigan should lead in energy solutions while attracting jobs and residents without eliminating dependable options prematurely.