The Detroit News analyzes the current debate over renewable energy mandates in Michigan. A 2008 energy law eliminated most electricity choice and required 10 percent of the state’s energy to come from renewable sources – which in practical terms means windmills. Since the law went into effect, Michigan energy prices have steadily increased and are the highest in the Midwest.

The legislature is debating changes to the law. A plan in the state House would totally eliminate electricity competition while maintaining the 10 percent mandate. A plan in the state Senate would maintain some electricity choice while eliminating the renewable energy mandates.

The News reports:

[R]enewable critics such as the free-market-oriented Mackinac Center for Public Policy argue mandates are effectively subsidies for wind and solar power. If renewable energy costs are decreasing, their producers don’t require state quotas to compete, they say.

To read more about the House plan, click here. To read more about the Senate plan, click here.

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