Article Summary –
Michigan is expected to gain 21,490 new clean energy jobs from 58 projects with over $25 billion in investments, part of a broader U.S. trend of 585 projects creating more than 312,900 jobs since August 2022, following the signing of the Inflation Reduction Act. These projects, which include solar, wind, and electric vehicle-related manufacturing, are notably located in low-income and rural areas, and are supported by tax credits and rebates aimed at promoting clean energy investments. Former President Trump and Congressional Republicans have opposed the Act, with Trump seeking to roll back these environmental policies if re-elected.
Michigan is among the top 10 states benefiting the most from a clean energy jobs boom, a June 20 report by Climate Power revealed. The organization estimates Michigan will see 21,490 new jobs from 58 projects announced since 2022, with investments totaling more than $25 billion.
Climate Power noted 585 large-scale projects across the U.S. will create over 312,900 new clean energy jobs. These projects include solar and wind manufacturing plants, battery production sites for electric vehicles, and new or upgraded plants for building electric vehicles.
Many of these projects will be located in low-income and rural areas.
The project surge follows President Joe Biden signing the Inflation Reduction Act in August 2022. The Environmental Protection Agency described it as the “most significant climate legislation in U.S. history,” featuring tax credits and rebates to promote clean energy investments.
One highlighted project is Highland Copper Company’s Copperwood Mine in Gogebic County, which received tax credits. The mine will produce copper for electric vehicle batteries and solar panels, creating 380 jobs in the Upper Peninsula.
Another notable project is a solar power facility in Moorland Township, announced by Consumers Energy. Set to be operational by 2026, the facility aims to power at least 40,000 homes.
Congressional Republicans opposed the Inflation Reduction Act, and it passed with Democratic support. Former President Donald Trump opposes the Act’s tax credits. A Trump campaign official stated intentions to cut such spending if re-elected.
In May, the Washington Post reported Trump sought $1 billion from oil executives for his campaign, promising to reverse Biden’s environmental policies.
“The American people deserve cleaner, cheaper energy, and American workers deserve to make it here at home,” Climate Power executive director Lori Lodes said in a statement. She criticized Trump’s stance, claiming it favors oil executives over competition and clean energy advancements.
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