Mlive: Proposal 3: Michigan voters to decide on mandating renewable energy standards for utilities

Posted on Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:10 p.m.

Michigan voters on Nov. 6 will decide whether state utilities should have to derive at least 25 percent of their annual electric retail sales from clean renewable sources by 2025.

Stoupa | Dreamstime.com MLive looks at arguments on both sides of the issue as part of a series of reports on statewide ballot issues.

Supporters of Proposal 3 say it will lead to $10 billion in investments, create jobs and help the environment. Opponents say it will lead to $12 billion in costs, high electric bills for consumers and unsightly wind turbines, according to the MLive report.

Read the full report from Mlive.com: Michigan Decides 2012: Proposal 3 dictates renewable energy standards for Michigan utilities

Read the full ballot language below:

A PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE STATE CONSTITUTION TO ESTABLISH A STANDARD FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY

This proposal would:

Require electric utilities to provide at least 25% of their annual retail sales of electricity from renewable energy sources, which are wind, solar, biomass, and hydropower, by 2025.

Limit to not more than 1% per year electric utility rate increases charged to consumers only to achieve compliance with the renewable energy standard.

Allow annual extensions of the deadline to meet the 25% standard in order to prevent rate increases over the 1% limit.

Require the legislature to enact additional laws to encourage the use of Michigan made equipment and employment of Michigan residents.

Should this proposal be approved?

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