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Welcome to the weekly newsletter of the Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council (Michigan EIBC), the business voice for advanced energy in Michigan. Here’s what’s new this week:
Regulators Issue Rules for Implementation of Significant New Siting Law
On Oct. 10 the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) approved procedures for the siting of renewable energy and energy storage projects under the new process created by Public Act 233, one of the clean energy laws that passed at the end of 2023. The MPSC’s order adopts several recommendations from Michigan EIBC and strikes a balance between the need to streamline the approval process for projects and the need to consider benefits to communities and landowners.
“The procedures released yesterday adhere to the careful balance struck by the legislature and have been vetted by many experts and stakeholders, including members of the clean energy industry,” Michigan EIBC President Laura Sherman said in a press release. “Although we anticipate that many projects will continue to be approved at the local level, we applaud the Commission for establishing a fair state-level process to ensure that farmers who want to lease their land for solar, wind, or storage projects are able to do so.”
Michigan EIBC and Advanced Energy United submitted numerous comments throughout the MPSC staff’s drafting of these instructions to point out ways to make them as simple and in line with the intent of the law as possible.
For example, we argued against the use of a definition of “affected local unit” that was overly broad and would have involved in the siting process local units that have no say in local siting, thus complicating the process instead of streamlining it. The MPSC’s order accepted our recommendation and defined “affected local unit” to mean only the local government that exercises zoning jurisdiction.
The MPSC also defined exactly what constitutes a “compatible renewable energy ordinance” (CREO) under the law. The order adopted what the MPSC described as a “narrow” definition of a CREO, where an ordinance must be limited to requirements no stricter than provisions outlined in the law for setback, fencing, height, sound and other conditions.
The MPSC “clarified that under the new law, the siting process must originate at the local level in most instances,” according to a statement. “The Commission can only consider applications in instances in which the relevant unit(s) of government have denied an application, failed to either approve or deny an application within 120 days or added additional provisions more restrictive than those contained in state law while an application is pending. The only exceptions to a project starting at the local level are where a local government has in place a moratorium on project development or where the local government requests that the developer use the statewide application process at the Commission instead of the local siting process.”
DTE Proposal Would Stymie Growth of Distributed Energy, Comments Argue
Portions of DTE’s proposal for interconnection procedures for distributed energy resources (DERs) should be modified or rejected by the MPSC because they set up unnecessary barriers to customer use of DERs at odds with rules recently set up by the MPSC, Michigan EIBC President Laura Sherman argued in recent testimony on behalf of Michigan EIBC, the Institute for Energy Innovation and Advanced Energy United.
In 2023, the MPSC approved new Interconnection and Distributed Generation Standards, following a great deal of input from stakeholders like Michigan EIBC on how those standards should be drafted to ease the addition of DERs like rooftop solar, behind-the-meter storage and larger distribution-connected projects to the grid.
DTE is now trying to get MPSC approval of its procedures for DER interconnection under the new rules, and Dr. Sherman pointed to numerous instances where DTE’s proposals would stand in the way of the potential benefits of DERs. For example, DTE proposed two acceptable modes for battery storage devices: one where the battery can import power to charge, and another where the battery cannot charge or discharge. “The logical implication of these modes is that, under the Company’s proposal, a customer may not operate their storage system in a mode whereby they charge their battery only from an on-site DER like a solar system (i.e., not from grid sources) and then export that electricity to the grid,” Sherman wrote in her direct testimony. “In other words, the two modes in the Company’s proposed procedures leave no option for a customer to provide on-site generated renewable energy stored in the battery to the grid.”
Taking away that option also takes away the ability for customers to participate in third-party aggregation programs. By exporting power to the grid, behind-the-meter storage can “benefit the grid by creating a source of low-cost capacity at times when it is most needed,” Sherman pointed out in her rebuttal testimony.
Last Chance to Register for October 22 Public Convening on Transportation Electrification
To bring together stakeholders on the topic of how to get Michigan ready for an anticipated two million EVs on roads and 100,000 new EV chargers by 2030, Michigan EIBC and Clean Fuels Michigan are holding a public convening on Oct. 22 at the Detroit Smart Parking Lab. The event will focus on transportation electrification policies and the release of our Transportation Electrification Roadmap. Ticket sales close Oct. 17, and the event is almost full, so get your tickets now!
After speakers and a panel discussion, attendees will be able to participate in a tour of the Detroit Smart Parking Lab.
This event is sponsored by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE).
Renewing Members
Advanced Battery Concepts is a battery technology development company focused on the advancement of large-format, energy storage solutions. They have developed a broad portfolio of patents and trade-secrets, termed GreenSeal® technology, which enables improved performance at lower production cost for traditional lead-acid batteries with extendibility into other advanced chemistries.
With over 40 years of combined experience in the electrical utility industry, ecojiva, LLC is a full-service solar energy management system provider. ecojiva, LLC designs Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy solutions for agriculture, commercial, and industrial enterprises, and is a full-service turn-key enterprise from inception to completion. Our engineers design PV systems that provide access to power independent of the utility grid, and creates surplus power that can be returned to the grid. Founded by utility industry veteran Sridhar K. Ayer, ecojiva, LLC is committed to energy innovation in the solar industry not only as a technology provider but through education and advocacy as well. The company’s expertise also encompasses Transmission & Distribution design services, patent-pending eco-DMT™ energy management system, and ecoSEMS™ complete solar energy solutions.
Mackinaw Power is developing new renewable energy projects to provide power for the Great Lakes at competitive prices. Mackinaw Power also uses its experience within the wind industry to work with a variety of companies in Michigan to increase the supply chain for renewable energy technologies in the Midwest. In 2003, Mackinaw Power acquired the assets of Bay Windpower, which developed the Great Lakes’ first privately developed wind power project. Mackinaw Power plans to be a catalyst for sustainable economic growth, environmental stewardship, and energy security. We are working to build sustainable communities to provide clean, affordable wind power by harvesting the area’s wind resources. Mackinaw Power is investing in Michigan’s future generations. We look forward to working with you to create renewable power that protects our Great Lakes, public health, and farm land.
Varnum’s long-standing energy practice encompasses significant experience in conventional, alternative and renewable energy sources. It has been involved in energy legal issues for more than 35 years. Varnum helped organize the Energy Michigan trade association and are a founding member of the Michigan Renewable Energy Consortium. Varnum’s energy clients include: – Municipally-owned electric utilities – Co-generators and independent power producers – Biomass facilities, including waste-to-energy and wood-fired plants – Alternative energy projects, including wind farms, biomass, waste-to-energy, landfill gas, hydroelectric, and biodigesters – Oil & gas producers and transporters – Nuclear power plants – Trade associations – Investors and lenders – Customers and end-users – Manufacturers of energy-producing parts and equipment Varnum’s project work includes utility scale cogeneration and exempt wholesale generators in excess of 1000 MW; alternative energy projects from 0.5 MW to 65 MW; and natural gas pipelines, production and utility scale storage facilities. Varnum has both the 40,000 foot perspective and the detailed knowledge of this highly-regulated industry to help you meet its clients energy goals in the new energy marketplace.
Michigan Energy News
- Researchers are identifying positive outcomes from a community solar project in the Upper Peninsula that is part of The Clean Energy for Low Income Communities Accelerator, a partnership between the U.S. Department of Energy and Michigan, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) reports.
- The University of Michigan’s Graham Institute releases a guidebook for planning commissions to help them deal with battery storage systems.
- Michigan Central, Michigan’s Office of Future Mobility Electrification, CEDAM and Wayne State University launch the inaugural cohort of fellows for the MI Mobility Fellows Program.
- Solar panels recently installed at several fish hatcheries are producing $90,000-$100,000 in savings annually for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
- DTE and Consumers Energy receive criticism for giving executives bonuses tied to reliability performance when the utilities are among the worst in the country at reliability.
- Consumers Energy is continuing work to bury more power lines.
National Energy News
- Michigan EIBC member Form Energy raises $405 million in financing.
- The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has updated a proposal to streamline the environmental review of new nuclear reactors.
- American Electric Power, Dominion Energy Virginia and FirstEnergy propose joint transmission projects across Ohio, Virginia and West Virginia.
- The U.S. Department of Energy says it will enter negotiations to buy up to $1.5 billion of capacity from several major transmission projects.
Job Board
Attention Michigan EIBC members: if you have a job announcement you would like in the newsletter, please send a paragraph describing the position and a link to apply to Matt Bandyk at matt@mieibc.org. Please include in the email a specific end date for the job posting.
Elevate
Senior Director, Policy (Federal). Location: Chicago.
The Senior Director, Policy (Federal) supports Elevate’s mission by ensuring its mission and strategies are well-represented in the federal policy environment and brings Elevate’s expertise to federal policy actions. The Sr. Director, Policy (Federal) leads Elevate’s federal policy initiatives and advocacy efforts and collaborates with the Policy Team to inform integration of those efforts at the state and local levels; ensuring the furtherance of Elevate’s mission to advance clean, affordable energy, and water at the intersection of racial economic justice. The Sr. Director, Federal Policy is a newly created position and is responsible for furthering Elevate’s leadership and effectiveness in the federal space, creating opportunities to partner with, and is responsive to the needs of environmental justice and other historically underserved populations and communities. The Sr. Director, Federal Policy keeps Elevate staff, partners, stakeholders, and the broader policy ecosystem informed on relevant federal initiatives. The position represents Elevate in key White House and federal department initiatives and leads and serves on working groups, advisory groups, and other relevant federal policy forums.
Harvest Solar
Solar Sales Consultant. Location: Illinois.
Harvest Solar is seeking a Solar Sales Consultant to drive the sales of solar systems in Illinois. The successful candidate will live in the area they service, be willing to meet face to face with customers within that area and educate the customer on the benefit of solar energy. Harvest Solar provides a business-use vehicle to support home visits, cold calling, and other business travel in addition to providing the necessary equipment to establish a home office.
Solar Sales Consultant. Location: Grand Rapids.
Harvest Solar is seeking a Solar Sales Consultant to drive solar system sales in the Greater Grand Rapids Area. The Solar Sales Consultant is responsible for the origination of new business by identifying customer prospects, developing solar energy proposals, and executing all transactions required to consummate a sale and that meet the company sales goals. The position requires direct customer interaction to manage the customer through the entire sales process and beyond ensuring superior customer service and referral opportunities. The position will primarily focus on rural residential, agricultural, and small business opportunities.
Pivot Energy
Manager, Project Development – Execution. Location: Ohio/Pittsburgh/Chicago/Detroit/Remote.
The Manager, Project Development will be involved in site diligence and project development efforts. The Manager will also manage third-party contractors, prepare and execute land use permits, plan, organize, and lead public outreach, and represent Pivot at land use hearings. The individual will support ongoing site development efforts, assess solar sites for critical issues related to project development, and create and secure land lease amendments with landowners for solar development.
Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy
Engineer 12 – Building Trade Industry Engineer. Location: Lansing.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) is currently recruiting for an Engineer 12 position within the Materials Management Division (MMD). This position is in Lansing and is open to all applicants.
Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity
Program and Operations Manager. Location: Lansing.
The Department of Labor & Economic Opportunity (LEO) is seeking an experienced professional with a background in project planning or program management to serve as a Program and Operations Manager. This is a foundational role in the new Community & Worker Economic Transition Office, supporting our mission of ensuring that communities, workers and employers facing transitions in the auto and utility sectors have the support they need to prepare for, benefit from, and shape Michigan’s future economy. This role will support strategic planning efforts and coordinate key projects across the office’s community, workforce, industry, and research functions. Successful candidates will have experience tracking project progress and keeping complex initiatives on track, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and a passion for public service.
Engagement Director. Location: Lansing.
The Department of Labor & Economic Opportunity (LEO) is seeking an experienced professional to serve as the Engagement Director for the Community & Worker Economic Transition Office. This is a senior role on our team, acting as an advisor on all engagement and programmatic activities to the Office Director. The Director of Engagement will play a significant role in developing and implementing office programs and executing engagement strategies that support our mission of ensuring that communities, workers and employers facing transitions in the auto and utility sectors have the support they need to prepare for, benefit from, and shape Michigan’s future economy. This individual will also serve as a key liaison to external stakeholders in business, labor, and local officials, as well as other state departments. Successful candidates will have experience in program design and implementation, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and a passion for public service.
Michigan Public Service Commission
Departmental Analyst Trainee. Location: Lansing.
This position serves as a case coordinator and contact person for renewable energy and energy storage siting (RESS) applications filed, complaint cases, or other cases related to renewable energy facility siting and Public Act 233 of 2023. Work as part of a team at times analyzing the evidence submitted by siting applicants to determine if they meet the laws, rules and Commission order guidelines for renewable energy and energy storage facility siting. Provide witness testimony as directed. Support the assigned attorney in the preparation of briefs, reply briefs, and replies on siting issues that may arise in administrative proceedings before the Commission. Attend meetings with the public, local units of government, siting applicants, contractors, and interested parties related to facility siting. Participate in the development of request for proposals to solicit bids from contractors to support the review of siting applications as needed. Coordinate the work of external contractors as needed. Provide information needed for the renewable energy and energy storage facility decommissioning financial assurance process and siting application fee calculation. Ensure applicants have complied with Commission orders related to siting through inquiries, the review of reports and data submitted, complaints, and meetings with internal and external parties.
Public Utilities Engineer. Location: Lansing.
This position serves as an engineer reviewing and analyzing applications for renewable energy and energy storage siting cases, contested complaint cases, or other cases related to renewable energy facility siting and Public Act 233 of 2023. Work independently at times and as part of a team at times analyzing the evidence submitted by siting applicants to determine if they meet the laws, rules, specifications, and Commission order guidelines for renewable energy and energy storage facility siting. Provide Staff recommendations to management and contributing witness testimony on technical matters in siting cases as directed. Technical matters in siting cases include site plans, decommissioning plans, decommissioning agreements, sound modeling studies, glare studies, construction plans, environmental, health, and safety impacts, alternatives analyses, impacts on land use, and other matters as directed. Support the assigned attorney in the preparation of briefs, reply briefs, and replies on siting issues that may arise in judicial proceedings before the Commission. Represent the Commission in meetings with the public, local units of government, siting applicants, contractors, and interested parties related to facility siting. Participate with the development of request for proposals to solicit bids from contractors to support with the review of siting applications as needed. Coordinate the work of external contractors as needed. Ensure applicants have complied with Commission orders related to siting through inquiries, site visits, inspections, the review of reports and data submitted, complaints, and meetings with internal and external parties. Advise management on steps to ensure facilities remain in compliance with Commission orders.
Walker-Miller Energy Services
Program Manager. Location: Detroit
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Program Manager to lead a large-scale, high-profile residential energy efficiency and electrification program in Michigan. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 4 of experience in program management, a deep understanding of energy efficiency for both residential and multi-family sectors, and experience within electrification. This role requires strong leadership, excellent client interfacing skills, and the ability to manage diverse stakeholders effectively.
Outreach Manager. Location: Detroit.
We are seeking an experienced Outreach Manager to lead the outreach and engagement for a large-scale residential energy efficiency program in Michigan. The ideal candidate will have at least 3-5 years of outreach experience and a strong understanding of energy efficiency for residential and multi-family sectors. This role requires significant experience in outreach and engagement, and managing campaigns, with diverse stakeholders.
Field Operations Manager. Location: Detroit.
We are seeking an experienced Field Operations Manager to lead the field team and activities for a large-scale residential energy efficiency program in Michigan. The ideal candidate will have at least 3-5 years of experience in managing a field team and a strong understanding of energy efficiency for residential and multi-family sectors. This role requires significant experience in home and building assessments, quality assurance and quality control processes, and supervising a field team.
Michigan and National Energy Events
Tickets are available for Michigan EIBC and Clean Fuels Michigan’s Public Convening to Discuss Transportation Electrification Policies on Oct. 22 in Detroit.
The State of Michigan’s Office of Future Mobility & Electrification (OFME) is hosting the MI Future Mobility Conference in Detroit on Oct. 24. Register to attend here.
Opportunities
The Michigan Public Service Commission has created a website tracking its progress implementing Public Acts 229, 231, 233, 234, and 235, passed on Nov. 8, 2023 and signed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer on Nov. 28.
Rheaply, NextCycle Michigan and Michigan EGLE have launched the Michigan Materials Marketplace, which allows businesses to buy and sell excess materials so they can be reused instead of discarded.
The Department of Energy Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) has issued a Notice of Intent (NOI) for “up to $400 million to spur innovative, community-focused clean energy solutions in rural and remote areas across the United States.” The related Notice of Funding Opportunity is expected to be released in the fall of 2024. Find out more here.
The U.S. Department of Energy has launched the Innovative Queue Management Solutions (iQMS) for Clean Energy Interconnection and Energization program that “will award $11.2 million across 25 distribution utilities for innovative approaches that can accelerate timelines for clean energy and EV charging projects.” Applications are due Oct. 16.
Michigan businesses have until Oct. 18 to apply for workforce training funding from cycle 1 of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s Going PRO Talent Fund.
DTE Electric has re-opened its 2024 Renewable Energy All Source RFP. Proposals are due by Oct. 29. Links: 2024 Solar BTA – RFP. 2024 Solar PPA – RFP. 2024 Wind BTA – RFP. 2024 Wind PPA – RFP.
The Department of Energy has released the Fiscal Year 2024 Vehicle Technologies Office Batteries Funding Opportunity Announcement, which is offering $43 million “in funding for projects that will advance research, development, demonstration, and deployment (RDD&D) in several areas critical to the future of advanced batteries.” The deadline for full applications is Oct. 30.
Michigan EGLE is launching the Renewables Ready Communities Award (RRCA), which makes Michigan municipalities that have, on or after October 1, 2023, begun physically hosting and/or performing local permitting for any portion of an eligible renewable energy project eligible for awards of $5,000 per MW. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are depleted and there is no specific deadline. More information on this opportunity can be found on the RRCA Webpage.
Michigan EGLE is offering at least $320,000 in funding MI Solar Communities-MI Solar Access Program. Applications will be accepted through March 31, 2025, or when funding is expended, whichever comes first. Find the request for proposals for MI Solar Access here.
Michigan EGLE has released an RFP for grants from its Clean Energy Workforce Development Program. The application deadline is July 30, 2025.