We hear about the "25 by 25" ballot proposal
Posted by John Ester
on Sep 11, 2012
As part of his annual energy update Jack Pope educated us on "25 by 25."
Among the ballot proposals up for approval in November is "Michigan Energy, Michigan Jobs," which would require Michigan to get 25% of its fuel to produce electricity from renewable resources by 2025. Based on his experience serving on the boards of Wolverine Power Cooperative and Spartan Renewable Energy, Jack explained what this would involve.
Jack reminded us that when we talk about "energy" there are two separate uses to consider--transportation and electricity. With respect to the latter there are several fuel sources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear and renewable resources. Coal is currently our primary source, but its drawbacks are pollution and toxins, as well as greenhouse gases. Jack believes that coal is still our best bet, provided that the producers are willing to invest in equipment that would address these concerns.
Renewable energy resources include biomass, hydroelectric, solar and wind power. Jack says that the first two of these are non-starters, and while he has high hopes for solar, there are issues with respect to both solar and wind not only regarding generation, but also with transmission and distribution. Nevertheless, power companies in Michigan and elsewhere are grappling with these issues, particularly in states like Michigan where existing law requires the state to obtain 10% of its fuel from renewable sources by 2015.
A most informative program!
Jack reminded us that when we talk about "energy" there are two separate uses to consider--transportation and electricity. With respect to the latter there are several fuel sources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear and renewable resources. Coal is currently our primary source, but its drawbacks are pollution and toxins, as well as greenhouse gases. Jack believes that coal is still our best bet, provided that the producers are willing to invest in equipment that would address these concerns.
Renewable energy resources include biomass, hydroelectric, solar and wind power. Jack says that the first two of these are non-starters, and while he has high hopes for solar, there are issues with respect to both solar and wind not only regarding generation, but also with transmission and distribution. Nevertheless, power companies in Michigan and elsewhere are grappling with these issues, particularly in states like Michigan where existing law requires the state to obtain 10% of its fuel from renewable sources by 2015.
A most informative program!