LANSING (September 21, 2020) – Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announced an executive order that would make Michigan among states with the most aggressive carbon reduction goals in the country. The governor’s plan, which calls for Michigan to become carbon neutral by 2050, will reduce greenhouse gas emissions while creating new jobs and opportunities in clean energy, according to the national, nonpartisan business group E2 (Environmental Entrepreneurs).
The following is a statement from E2 member Carla Walker Miller, CEO of Walker-Miller Energy Services, a Detroit-based energy efficiency company:
“This shows Michigan’s commitment to reducing our environmental impact and driving growth in the clean energy economy, including driving clean energy businesses like mine. Investing in clean energy is essential to meeting the challenge of climate change – and powering an inclusive economy.”
E2 Midwest Advocate Micaela Preskill said:
“Today’s announcement is good for our environment and our economy. As we invest in clean energy and identify ways to reduce energy use to hit the goals laid out today, Michigan businesses and consumers will benefit from more innovation, cost savings, and new job opportunities at this critical time for the economy. ”
Today’s executive order creates opportunities for new jobs, innovation and economic recovery. E2’s 2020 Clean Jobs Midwest report shows that nearly 126,000 Michiganders worked in renewable energy, clean fuels, energy efficiency, energy storage, and advanced transportation at the end of 2019. Nearly 24,000 have lost their jobs since the COVID-19 pandemic began and remain out of work. With bold actions like today’s announcement, the clean energy economy can be even more important to Michigan’s future.
For more information or interview requests, please contact Micaela Preskill at mpreskill@e2.org or 312-995-5908.