The 5 Lakes Energy report highlights the potential of Governor Whitmer's clean energy legislation, which, combined with the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), is poised to drive significant economic growth across Michigan. By 2030, the combined impact of these measures is expected to reduce household energy bills by an average of $297 annually, generate $15.6 billion in federal investments, and save $7.3 billion in public health costs. These initiatives align with the MI Healthy Climate Plan, which aims to build a sustainable future for Michigan.
Governor Whitmer: "Michigan is building the future of cars, chips, and clean energy, driven by our world-class manufacturing capabilities, talented workers, and unmatched grit. Thanks to the Biden-Harris administration and the historic clean energy package we passed last year, we’ll be able to continue lowering household utility costs, create thousands of good-paying jobs, and bring more federal tax dollars home to Michigan for clean energy projects."
Regional Impacts: Job Creation and Economic Growth Across Michigan
The clean energy legislation's benefits extend across Michigan’s ten Prosperity Regions, each uniquely poised to capitalize on the economic opportunities presented by this green transition. From the Upper Peninsula to the Detroit Metro area, the report outlines significant job creation, GDP growth, and public health savings.
Upper Peninsula: Energy Independence and Job Growth
In the Upper Peninsula, the clean energy legislation is expected to create 1,462 new jobs by 2030, with an expansion to 2,510 jobs by 2040. The region's GDP is projected to grow by nearly $188 million by 2030, with federal tax credit investments reaching over $415 million. Public health cost savings are also significant, expected to total $33.6 million by 2030.
State Representative Jenn Hill (D-Marquette): "Energy costs are a consistent concern among Upper Peninsula residents, so it’s exciting to see our region headed toward true energy independence, a lower cost of living, and more good-paying jobs."
Detroit Metro: A Major Hub for Clean Energy Jobs
The Detroit Metro area, encompassing Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties, stands to gain the most from the clean energy transition. By 2030, the region is projected to create over 24,000 new jobs, with job growth reaching over 40,000 by 2040. The region’s GDP is expected to increase by nearly $3 billion by 2030, alongside a staggering $5.9 billion in federal tax credit investments. Public health cost savings are anticipated to reach over $4.2 billion by 2030.
State Senator Sue Shink (D-Northfield Twp): "Our historic Clean Energy Future legislation has positioned Michigan as a national leader in the fight against climate change, reducing household utility costs, and safeguarding our air, water, and public health, while creating good-paying jobs for people."
Clean Energy and Public Health: A Win-Win
Beyond economic growth, Michigan’s clean energy initiatives are set to deliver substantial public health benefits. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting renewable energy sources, the state is projected to save billions in public health costs due to cleaner air and water. For example, in Southeast Michigan, which includes Monroe, Washtenaw, and parts of Wayne County, public health cost savings are expected to surpass $758 million by 2030.
State Representative Joey Andrews (D-St. Joseph): "These clean energy jobs will help communities independently sustain themselves with homegrown, renewable energy. I am happy to see these employment opportunities expand across Southwest Michigan, allowing more working people to support their families."
Leading the Charge: Michigan’s Clean Energy Wins
Governor Whitmer’s clean energy package is a cornerstone of her administration's strategy to position Michigan as a national leader in the clean energy sector. Since taking office, Whitmer has championed several initiatives that contribute to this vision:
MI Healthy Climate Plan: Aimed at making Michigan 100% carbon neutral by 2050, this plan is central to the state’s clean energy strategy.
State Facilities Leading by Example: Whitmer has mandated the use of clean energy in state facilities and committed to powering state government with 100% renewable energy.
Job Creation and Economic Investment: Michigan now leads the Midwest in clean energy job growth, with nearly 124,000 workers in the sector. The state has also secured over $26 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act, supporting more than 21,000 jobs.
Investment in Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Through bipartisan budgets, the state has invested millions in projects such as electric school buses, local renewable energy, and electrification projects, strengthening Michigan’s infrastructure against future climate challenges.
A Blueprint for the Future: Economic and Environmental Sustainability
Governor Whitmer’s clean energy legislation serves as a blueprint for economic and environmental sustainability in Michigan. By reducing dependence on foreign fuels, creating high-skilled jobs, and fostering innovation in the clean energy sector, the state is setting a precedent for the rest of the country. As investments continue to pour into local communities, Michigan's economy is expected to grow stronger, more resilient, and more inclusive.
The combination of Whitmer’s state-level initiatives with federal support from the Inflation Reduction Act is paving the way for a sustainable future that benefits all Michiganders. With a clear vision and strategic investments, Michigan is poised to lead the nation in clean energy innovation and economic growth.
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