The Sierra Club Michigan Chapter invites you to participate in an important series of listening session events hosted by Rep. Helena Scott. These events focus on addressing energy affordability, resiliency, and reliability in Michigan. Rep. Scott, as the chair of the Energy, Communications, and Technology committee, has significant influence in shaping energy policies. Public Engagement is crucial in ensuring affordable, reliable, and clean energy services for all.
What is it?
A Task Force has been established to develop policy recommendations for energy equity and reliability in Michigan. Goals include enhancing oversight, ensuring prompt service response, and upgrading infrastructure by 2035. This is also an excellent opportunity for the public to talk about clean energy, and how it can increase both equity and reliability. If we ensure that families experiencing high energy burdens have access to renewable and energy efficiency technologies,we can also tackle this state’s energy affordability crisis.
When is it?
The first listening session was held on June 16th, from 11 am to 1 pm at Focus: Hope in Detroit. Additional listening sessions are available based on your area:
June 28, Flint @ 11am
July 14, Marquette @ 11am
August 4, Lansing @ 11am, Speakers Library (Chair invite only discussion)
August 9, Grand Rapids @ 11am
August 23, Benton Harbor @ 11am
August 30, Ferndale @ 11am
September 6, Lansing, Speakers Library (Chair invite only discussion)
How can I participate?
During the town hall and listening sessions, speak up about energy equity, affordability, and reliability concerns during public comment. Contact Greg Humphries at ghumphries@house.mi.gov to secure a speaking opportunity. The Sierra Club is available for support, and can provide talking points and information. Each listening session will have a slightly different topic. But, it will be possible to talk about the need for clean energy/energy equity and reliability at all of them. We have talking points for volunteers here.
Need more information?
Citizen participation is vital in shaping the future of energy policies. The Sierra Club’s staff are happy to support you in any way that we can with public comments. If you would like to participate and need assistance developing your comment, please reach out to Andrew Sarpolis (andrew.sarpolis@sierraclub.org) or Tim Minotas (tim.minotas@sierraclub.org). They can send you more talking points and additional information.