Advocacy News – April 17, 2026
What’s new: The Michigan Chamber testified this week in support of House Bills 5710 and 5711, which would roll back onerous mandates from the 2023 energy law.
Why it matters: Business groups warn the existing law’s timelines could drive up costs and strain grid reliability further – particularly for energy-intensive employers emphasizing that allowing regulators to consider a diverse mix of energy generation options is key to providing Michigan customers with clean, affordable and reliable energy.
What the bills do:
- Scale back aggressive renewable mandates, including targets of:
- 50% by 2030, 60% by 2035 and 100% carbon-free by 2040
- Restore greater flexibility for regulators to consider a diverse energy mix
Addressing the concerns:
- Cost pressure: These accelerated timelines would require a rapid build-out of new generation, likely above market cost
- Stranded assets: Customers could absorb costs from retiring existing facilities early
- Reliability risk: Reduced flexibility may challenge grid stability during the transition
What we’re saying: The MI Chamber supports continued investment in clean and renewable energy – but not through rigid mandates that increase costs and limit reliability. The bottom line is that Michigan needs durable energy policy that balances affordability, reliability and sustainability to support job providers and long-term economic growth.
For questions or more information, contact Mike Alaimo.