Rep. Clemente offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 113.

            A resolution to urge the Governor and the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) to form a coalition to develop an energy policy for the state of Michigan.

           Whereas, A reliable and abundant supply of reasonably-priced energy is essential to Michigan’s economy and the welfare of its citizens. Michigan is almost entirely dependent on fuels imported from other areas. High energy prices are causing a huge drain on our state economy. A robust economy depends on adequate supplies of energy; and

            Whereas, Energy conservation, clean fuels, and environmentally sound energy production are essential to the health and welfare of Michigan's citizens. Because all energy production has environmental impacts, research and development of alternative energy fuels and technologies and initiatives, such as Next Energy, should be facilitated. A recent study by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy found that a policy of energy efficiency and renewable energy could save over $75 billion in gas costs and $30 billion in electricity costs nationally. Michigan residents should be able to have ample energy as well as breathe clean air and drink clean water; and

            Whereas, New generation, transmission, and other energy resources may be needed in the future.  Most of Michigan's base-load electric generating power plants are 40 to 50 years old-well past their prime. It takes about $1 billion and 6 to 10 years to build a new base-load power plant, and cost recovery is uncertain; and

            Whereas, Using energy for its best and highest use is crucial when resources are limited. In the last few years, the vast majority of new electric generating plants constructed in Michigan and across the country are fueled by natural gas. With U.S. production projected to grow more slowly than consumption, it is expected that the U.S. will have to import more natural gas. Michigan's manufacturers, farmers, small businesses, local governments, retailers, and residents have been struggling to pay skyrocketing natural gas prices. It is extremely important to consider the highest and best use of natural gas and its role in the state's future energy make-up; and

            Whereas, Energy diversity makes sense. Michigan should depend on a diverse set of electric generating sources, such as renewable energy sources, alternative energy generators, alternative fuels such as hydrogen and biodiesel, integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power plants, and nuclear power plants. It is wise not to have all our energy eggs in one basket; and

            Whereas, Peter Lark, Chairman of the MPSC, in a 2004 speech at the Michigan Electric Power Conference said that a long-term energy policy is essential to ensure that Michigan is able to meet the needs of its businesses and residents in the future. Three key issues-Long-term energy planning, a robust economy, and environmental regulation-are inherently intertwined and need to be a part of any energy policy; and

            Whereas, An energy policy should have an overall vision and mission. It should look at the state's current energy strengths and weaknesses and plan for future energy opportunities and threats. It should have timelines, benchmarks, and other measurable outcomes so the public and policy makers can assess its effectiveness and map its progress; and

            Whereas, The energy puzzle is complex and comprised of a multitude of pieces, such as economic and environmental impacts and security issues. A coalition of knowledgeable people is required to put all the puzzle pieces together in a coherent, holistic manner in order to devise a comprehensive energy policy for the state of Michigan; and    

            Whereas, The coalition should be bipartisan and comprised of representatives from the legislative and executive branches, including the MPSC. It should include business, labor, and nonprofit leaders, representatives from the energy industry, consumer advocates, and environmental advocates; and

            Whereas, The coalition should be flexible and able to recognize and adapt the energy policy to evolving challenges and technologies. It should meet biennially, beginning the first January of a new legislative cycle and concluding on the first Monday of March, when it should deliver a report of its findings to the legislature. The biennial meetings should ensure that the policy is up-to-date and effective. The coalition should monitor what is happening at the federal level and ensure that the state's policy complements rather than thwarts national policy; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we urge the Governor and the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) to form a coalition to develop an energy policy for the state of Michigan; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor's Office and the Chairman of the Michigan Public Service Commission.