As part of the new Clean Energy plan, Consumers Energy will close almost all of its coal-fired power plants by 2040
Image: Consumers Energy wins approval for Clean Energy Plan. Photo: Courtesy of Anusorn P nachol/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.
Consumers Energy has received approval from the Michigan Public Service Commission for its new Clean Energy Plan, ushering in a new era of renewable energy in the state.
With the new Clean Energy Plan, Consumers Energy aims to eliminate coal, reduce carbon emissions by more than 90% and meet customer’s future electricity demand with 90% clean energy resources by 2040.
As per the Clean Energy Plan, the company aims to reduce carbon emissions from power plants to more than 90% by 2040.
Consumers Energy president and CEO Patti Poppe said: “Consumers Energy is proud to take a stand with our Clean Energy Plan that reflects our Triple Bottom Line strategy – making a commitment to people, the planet and Michigan’s prosperity.
“This plan establishes Michigan as a national clean energy leader and provides benefits to homes and businesses, as we supply affordable, reliable and clean energy and create innovative solutions to our state’s energy needs.”
Consumers Energy will retire two coal plants a decade ahead of schedule
As part of the plan, the company aims to retire two coal-fired power generating units at the Karn generating facility near Bay City, about decade ahead of schedule. Three Campbell generating units near Holland will be closed between 2031 and 2040.
The plan not only includes closure of coal plants, but compensating them with clean energy resources such as renewable energy, energy waste reduction and energy storage. It also includes the addition of 5GW of solar energy through competitive bidding even earlier by 2030.
Poppe continued saying: “It’s important to understand the role that everyone plays in Michigan’s clean energy future. We are working with policymakers, businesses and environmental groups to develop our energy plan, but our customers will play a key role by participating in programs that will reduce our demand for energy and manage the power grid more efficiently and effectively.”