Michigan is leading the charge in the clean energy revolution, fueled by the transformative power of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The latest report from Climate Power highlights that Michigan stands as the nation’s frontrunner in clean energy and electric vehicle manufacturing projects, thanks to over $25 billion in new investments. This funding surge is igniting job creation, boosting middle-class incomes, and slashing energy costs for families and businesses statewide.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has been vocal about the state’s progress, attributing Michigan’s success to the collaborative efforts with the Biden administration and the relentless push from the state’s congressional delegation. “Michigan has landed more clean energy projects as a direct result of the Biden-Harris administration’s Inflation Reduction Act than any other state,” said Whitmer. “These projects are not just numbers on a report; they represent tens of thousands of good-paying new jobs, lower costs for families, and a significant step toward protecting our environment. With our new 100% clean energy by 2040 standard, we are committed to a brighter, cleaner, and more sustainable future.”
Congressman Dan Kildee echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the tangible benefits for mid-Michigan. “I’m proud to have helped pass new laws to invest in our clean energy future and create good-paying, union jobs,” said Kildee. “These investments are bringing clean energy manufacturing back to Michigan, advancing technology, and securing a better future for our communities.”
Congresswoman Debbie Dingell highlighted Michigan’s historical role in automotive innovation and its current leadership in the clean energy sector. “Michigan put the world on wheels, and now we’re leading the country in ushering in a new era of transportation and clean energy,” said Dingell. “We are working tirelessly to ensure these investments power a sustainable future in Michigan.”
The IRA’s impact on job creation and advanced manufacturing is profound, with plans for 173 new battery manufacturing sites, 137 new or expanded electric vehicle manufacturing facilities, and 166 solar and wind manufacturing plants nationwide. In Michigan alone, this means 21,490 new jobs, a testament to the state’s aggressive pursuit of clean energy projects.
Zachary Kolodin, chief infrastructure officer and director of the Michigan Infrastructure Office, stressed the importance of these initiatives for the community. “Michigan is seizing every opportunity to secure federal funding for projects that will benefit Michiganders today and in the future,” said Kolodin. “Our leadership in landing Inflation Reduction Act investments is a testament to the state’s creativity, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to fostering partnerships. These efforts are crucial for driving projects that enhance the quality of life for our residents, modernize Michigan’s infrastructure, and create middle-class jobs.”
The IRA, passed in 2022, represents the largest investment in climate and energy in American history. Its goals include tackling the climate crisis, advancing environmental justice, creating clean energy jobs, and positioning the United States as a global leader in clean energy manufacturing. Michigan has been a significant beneficiary of this legislation, with billions of dollars flowing into the state to protect public health, safeguard natural resources, and accelerate the clean energy transition.
Notable IRA-funded projects in Michigan include a $1.5 billion investment from the U.S. Department of Energy to restart the Palisades Nuclear Plant in Southwest Michigan, $156 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for the MI Solar for All Program, and $50 million for Nel Hydrogen to support a clean energy facility in Metro Detroit.
Phil Roos, director of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, highlighted the state’s forward momentum. “Creating a future for Michiganders to grow and thrive means prioritizing our natural resources, confronting climate change head-on, and investing in clean energy solutions,” said Roos. “The Inflation Reduction Act, combined with Governor Whitmer’s landmark clean energy laws and the MI Healthy Climate Plan, has enabled Michigan to make significant strides. By leveraging federal funding opportunities, we are preserving our environment and paving the way for a more prosperous, sustainable future.”
Michigan has also launched the “Make it in Michigan Competitiveness Fund,” a state resource pool designed to unlock federally backed investments from the IRA, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the CHIPS and Science Act. This fund supports projects in infrastructure, mobility, electrification, climate, economic development, health, and public safety.
Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, emphasized the broad benefits of these investments. “Michigan is proud to be capitalizing on job-creating opportunities created by federal policies that will benefit current and prospective residents, businesses of all sizes, and our vibrant communities,” said Messer. “Our unwavering commitment to leveraging these investments is making Michigan the premier destination for advanced manufacturing and creating a robust economy where everyone can ‘Make it in Michigan’ in a climate responsible manner for generations to come.”
For more information about how federal funding is being invested to improve Michigan’s infrastructure, visit michigan.gov/whitmer/issues/michigan-infrastructure-office.
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