Michigan green energy measure stirs debate

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EAST LANSING, Mich., Aug. 8 (UPI) -- A ballot measure in Michigan that would increase the state's renewable energy mandate is a "forward-looking" proposal, an advocacy group said.

Michigan voters in November decide on a measure that would require the state to get 25 percent of its electricity from renewable energy resources by 2025. Legislation passed in Michigan in 2008 requires utility companies to get 10 percent of their electricity from renewable energy sources by 2015. Utility company Consumers Energy said it expects to reach 8 percent this year.

Arnold Boezaart, director of the Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center, spoke in favor of the measure at an event at Michigan State University hosted by the Union of Concerned Scientists.

"Making a commitment to develop a more comprehensive U.S. energy portfolio, including renewable energy, is a forward-looking choice," he said in a statement.

If approved, the measure would require amending the state's constitution. Ken Sikkema, R-Grandville, a former Republican Senate leader, said the 2008 measure was adequate.

"The energy industry is a complex business and it must have a thoughtful policy to shape and guide it," he told The Detroit News in July.

Sikkema introduced a utility-backed report last month that said the 2025 benchmark would cost about $10 billion.