Clean energy is not just a buzzword for Michigan—it’s becoming a reality, and rural communities are leading the charge. As Michigan embraces new opportunities to create a sustainable and prosperous future, the state’s commitment to clean energy is setting an example for others across the country. From wind turbines in South Dakota to hydropower in Washington, many states are making impressive strides toward the federal goal of 100% carbon-free electricity by 2035.
At the heart of this transition is a fundamental truth: switching to clean energy isn’t just good for the environment; it’s a smart move for rural economies too. And the clean energy we need is not only from the promising development of solar and wind farms in Michigan. The reopening of the Palisades Nuclear Plant, combined with investments in Wolverine Power Cooperative, is a key step in Michigan’s clean energy revolution. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said, “This is more than just an energy project—it’s about saving and creating jobs, fortifying Michigan’s energy independence, and positioning the state at the forefront of clean energy leadership.”
Clean Energy Progress Across the U.S.
As reported by the Environmental Protection Agency, 13 states were already sourcing more than 50% of their energy from clean, carbon-free sources by the end of 2022. States like Washington, South Dakota, and Vermont have become leaders in this transition. Washington topped the charts, powered 83% by clean energy, largely thanks to the Columbia River’s hydropower. South Dakota followed closely behind, with wind turbines supplying nearly 58% of its electricity.
But Michigan isn’t far behind, especially with the ongoing clean energy projects. With the help of federal and local funding, the state is working hard to improve its energy infrastructure and provide cleaner power to homes and businesses in both urban and rural areas.
Michigan’s Legislative Push for Clean Energy
In November 2023, Michigan’s legislature passed a series of clean energy laws, building on Governor Whitmer’s climate plan. According to the Michigan Advance, these laws set the state on a path to 100% clean energy by 2040, while also improving the efficiency of the energy grid through better waste reduction standards. As a result, Michigan is poised to see significant economic benefits over the next few decades.
According to a report from 5 Lakes Energy, Michigan will attract $15.6 billion in investments from the Inflation Reduction Act by 2030 and $30.7 billion by 2040. These investments will save Michigan families an average of $297 a year on energy bills by 2030, increasing to $713 by 2040. Beyond financial savings, the state is projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 65% over the next six years and 88% by 2040, as noted by the Michigan Advance.
Wolverine Power Cooperative: A Lifeline for Rural Michigan
Wolverine Power Cooperative, which supplies electricity to rural parts of Michigan, is leading the charge in making sure clean energy reaches even the most remote corners of the state. Thanks to the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program, Wolverine is set to deliver clean, reliable power to more than 300,000 homes, businesses, and farms across rural Michigan.
This program is a game-changer for rural communities, bringing the largest federal investment in rural electrification since the 1936 Rural Electrification Act. The initiative aims not only to cut pollution but also to improve health outcomes for rural residents by providing affordable, cleaner energy. For families and farmers, this means lower energy costs and fewer health risks associated with pollution from traditional energy sources like coal and gas.
A Bright Future for Rural Michigan
As Michigan’s clean energy efforts ramp up, rural communities are reaping the benefits. Wolverine Power’s expansion is bringing cleaner, more reliable energy to homes and farms across the state, while creating jobs and lowering energy costs. Michigan is proving that rural areas don’t have to be left behind in the clean energy revolution. In fact, they can lead the way.
