Michigan’s Energy Future Today – DELEG’s Newest Cable Show Hits the Airwaves Statewide Keeping Consumers Informed About Michigan’s New Energy Economy

April 14, 2009 - Michigan’s Energy Future Today, a new cable show designed specifically for Michigan residents, will air on cable stations statewide beginning in April, Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth (DELEG) Communications Director Mario L. Morrow announced today. The new program will cover a wide range of topics including renewable energy, green jobs, advanced energy technologies, and energy efficiency.

“This show will be an important vehicle in giving Michigan residents an inside look at how Michigan is transitioning into a leader in emerging energy industries and diversifying into a new energy economy which helps retain and create new jobs for Michigan workers,” said Morrow.

This month’s program features DELEG Director and Michigan’s Chief Energy Officer, Stanley “Skip” Pruss who provides an overview of Michigan’s plans for its energy future, including how DELEG is focusing on the new energy economy. Also featured is DELEG Deputy Director Andy Levin who discusses DELEG’s first-ever Green Today, Jobs Tomorrow Conference that will be held May 11 at the Lansing Center to focus on workforce and economic development for Michigan’s emerging green economy. The show is hosted by Deputy Director Liesl Clark.

Future episodes of the 30-minute show will feature partners who are working to attract new investments, showcase employers who are creating new energy jobs, and provide consumer tips for energy efficiency and savings.

Michigan’s Energy Future Today will be released to more than 80 cable stations statewide and is expected to run multiple times throughout each month. New shows will be produced monthly. Check local listings for air dates and times.

In her 2009 State of the State address, Governor Jennifer M. Granholm called on the Legislature to enact a bold but achievable energy standard: by the year 2020, Michigan will reduce its use of imported fossil fuels for generating electricity by 45 percent. Michigan will reach this goal by increasing its use of renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and other new technologies. To help meet this ambitious new standard, Granholm offered a series of job creating proposals including increasing renewable energy use through entrepreneurship, putting Michigan utilities in the energy efficiency business; creating the Michigan Energy Corps; and launching Michigan Saves.

The Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth (DELEG) is investing in Michigan’s future by preparing for the new energy economy, helping to create the jobs of today and tomorrow, ensuring that our children and adults have the skills these jobs demand, making Michigan a better place to do business, and training and placing those who need jobs now.