Evergreen Statement on Benson Plan to Lower Costs and Advance Affordable Clean Energy

Contact: Emily Halvorson

Yesterday, Michigan gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson released an energy affordability plan focused on lowering energy costs, expanding clean energy, and strengthening utility accountability for Michigan’s energy system. In response, Evergreen Action State Advocacy Director Courtney Brady released the following statement: 

“Jocelyn Benson’s energy plan offers a clear roadmap to expand affordable clean power and ensure that the costs of growing energy demand are not shifted onto families and small businesses. Michigan has already shown that strong clean energy policies can create good-paying union jobs, strengthen local economies, and move the state toward a more reliable energy future. The next step is to lead on lowering costs for working families by building low-cost clean energy and holding utilities accountable to consumers. Benson’s plan would help us get there by requiring new large energy users to pay their fair share instead of shifting the cost onto ratepayers, opening the market to customer-owned cheap clean energy sources, and helping reduce excessive power outages in the state. 

“Michigan has the tools to build an energy system that’s more affordable, reliable, and accountable. Real progress will depend on turning those tools into durable policy. We look forward to working with policymakers and advocates to turn these priorities into action and deliver lasting savings for Michiganders.”