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Undated, Mich. -- Michigan's renewable energy production increased by 28% from 2023 to 2024, according to a report from the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). The report highlights significant growth in the state's renewable energy sector, with wind energy accounting for 67% of the renewable sources, solar at 18%, biomass at 8%, and hydroelectric power at 5%.
The MPSC's report indicates that the state's electric utilities had approximately 6,000 megawatts of renewable energy online by the end of 2023, a figure expected to rise to over 8,000 megawatts by the end of 2026. This growth is part of Michigan's broader effort to increase renewable energy usage, with a goal for all electric utilities to source at least 50% of their energy from renewables by 2030.
However, there are concerns about the cost and reliability of Michigan's transition to renewable energy. A report by the Mackinac Center for Public Policy warns that achieving net-zero energy goals could lead to higher electricity prices and increased risk of blackouts. The report suggests that Michigan's net-zero plans could cost residents $386 billion by 2050 and expose them to prolonged blackouts during winter.
Despite these challenges, Michigan remains committed to its renewable energy targets as part of the MI Healthy Climate Plan, which aims for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.