
Investing in Michigan-made clean energy will inject prosperity into our economy and stimulate
new job growth throughout the state. Global demand for clean energy products is skyrocketing. By positioning ourselves as leaders in advanced-battery technology, solar component manufacturing and wind turbine production, Michigan businesses will cultivate global markets.
In Michigan, we import 100% of our coal, 100% of our uranium, 97% of our petroleum and 80% of our natural gas. This amounts to more than $26 billion being permanently shipped out of the Michigan economy annually.1 Homegrown clean energy ventures will produce jobs here in Michigan and keep that money circulating locally.
Michigan is in a unique position to profit from the clean energy economy. Currently, the U.S. imports more than 70% of its clean energy components.2 In Michigan, we can utilize our skilled workforce, technical know-how and manufacturing infrastructure to produce the next generation of clean energy technologies and ensure that we are not replacing a dependence on foreign oil with a dependence on foreign-made batteries and wind turbines. Investing in this new sector will also allow Michigan to attract a variety of high-tech employers and expand opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Michigan's key advantages include:
Michigan has already made extensive inroads in the area of clean energy. The advanced-battery, solar and wind sectors, called the "New Big Three" by some, have experienced the most impressive increases in investment over the last several years.3 Some important milestones include:
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Sources:
1 MPSC 2008 Michigan Energy Overview
2 The Apollo Alliance
3 Michigan.gov: Governor Announces $20 Million for Clean-Energy Manufacturing Projects