Michigan AG Challenges DOE’s Coal Plant Emergency Order Extension

Michigan’s Coal Power Debate: Legal Challenges Arise Against Federal Orders

The ongoing legal battle over a western Michigan coal-fired power plant has intensified as State Attorney General Dana Nessel seeks federal intervention. Nessel announced plans to request the U.S. Department of Energy to rethink its decision to keep the J.H. Campbell power plant operational under emergency powers, a move she has consistently opposed.

This recent development follows a history of conflict, with similar orders previously issued during the Trump administration. Despite the national shift towards renewable energy, President Donald Trump has shown strong support for coal energy, even as utility companies lean towards cleaner alternatives.

The Department of Energy’s latest order marks the fourth extension for the Ottawa County facility. The order cites an energy capacity “emergency” as the reason for extending the plant’s operation until mid-May.

“The energy sources that perform when you need them most are inherently the most valuable—that’s why beautiful, clean coal was the MVP of recent winter storms,” stated Energy Secretary Chris Wright. He further emphasized the importance of coal in preventing blackouts and maintaining energy reliability during harsh conditions.

However, Nessel has labeled the extensions as “arbitrary” and “illegal,” criticizing the emergency claims as a “fabricated crisis” detrimental to Michigan’s economy. According to her, these decisions impose unnecessary financial burdens on state ratepayers.

“The Department of Energy has once again failed to show any legitimate energy emergency after almost a year of unlawfully forcing the J.H. Campbell Plant to remain operational,” Nessel expressed in a statement. She argues that federal actions undermine Michigan’s strategic energy planning.

While Nessel’s office remains tight-lipped about future strategies should the DOE maintain its stance, they have already petitioned the federal appeals court in Washington D.C. for a review of the case.