LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – In Lansing, House Republicans are discussing the challenges they see with energy legislation being worked on by Democrats.
At a conference this morning, Republican members of The House Energy Committee addressed concerns about renewable energy causing a potential price hike in utilities. They also discussed concerns about statewide legislation taking power away from local municipalities who might have a better idea of what energy sources work best in their area, as well as the reliability of renewable sources like wind or solar power during extreme weather. UP House Representative Dave Prestin says it is especially dangerous with the extreme weather in The UP.
“Michigan’s energy portfolio has to be built on a best available technology basis.” Prestin said. “Virtue signaling with the renewable portfolio is dangerous, ultimately it’s going to put us in harm’s way.”
Wzmq reached out to UP legislator, Representative Jenn Hill in the 109th district who gave this statement:
“Renewable energy costs are much lower than the costs of fossil fuels because once the equipment is paid for, operating expenses are next to nothing. Meanwhile, fossil fuels have to factor in the ongoing costs of buying coal or natural gas. And of course, the costs of those fossil fuels are unpredictable. They can swing for all kinds of reasons, like cold weather in Texas or a war starting across the world. Renewable energy is homegrown power managed by the communities that need it. This model will support energy reliability and affordable rates.”
House Republican Leader Matt Hall and Representative Graham Filler led the conference. Hall said their goal is to educate people on the areas where green energy could fall short. He says the legislation being passed is too extreme to be enforced and would actually cost more and decrease jobs in power plants.
Representative Graham Filler with the 93rd house district says he believes divesting from coal and nuclear energy in Michigan would set us behind. Rep Filler and Rep Pat Outman from the 91st house district both said they plan on working with democrats to come up with solutions and create more policy that both parties could agree with.
