There are several different ways that we create energy here in The United States and its vitally important to our everyday lives. We have also learned that many of the methods we choose to use around the world are damaging the Earth and its atmosphere, making it harder for us to live. There has been a huge push for green energy sources for years and many people are starting to see the reason why.

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Even though there has been push from people all over the world for the renewable and clean energy sources to be used over fossil fuels, this process will take time like anything else. This means that fossil fuels are still years away from being dormant in our energy creation process. Some states have already started to make this transition and have shut down many of those energy facilities.

Michigan is trying to do the same and find ways to make the Great Lakes State safer, but they have run into a roadblock along the way. Michigan planned to close the Consumers Energy J.H Campbell coal energy plant on May 31st. That's until the U.S. Energy Department under President Donald Trump's administration ordered the plant to remain open until at least August.

Trump Administration Orders Michigan Coal Energy Plant To Remain Open

Their reasoning for ordering the plant to stay open was the possibility of electricity shortfalls in the Central U.S. Michigan state regulators snapped back immediately saying it is unnecessary to keep the plant open. Dan Scripps, the chair of the Michigan Public Service Commission quickly followed in support of their decision.

Scripps said the following in regard to the plant and the amount of energy in Michigan:

“We currently produce more energy in Michigan than needed. As a result, there is no existing energy emergency in either Michigan or MISO, although there is the potential for elevated risk during extreme weather."

MISO stands for Midcontinent Independent System Operator, which manages the flow of electricity in 15 U.S. states and Manitoba in Canada. MISO will work with consumers energy to make sure the Campbell plant is available to operate as they will comply with the order. So, yes, the plant will stay open and produce electricity according to both Energy Secretary Chris Wright and spokesperson Brian Wheeler.

Abandoned Morrow Power Plant 2021

Gallery Credit: Loren Souers at Kalamazoo Commercial Real Estate

Energy Savings Tips

Gallery Credit: Mary K

Michigan Mansion Built in 1916 by Consumers Energy Founder

In 1886, two brothers were tasked with providing electric lighting in downtown Jackson, Michigan. William A. and James B. Foote would make their mark in the town, with William's wife later founding Foote Hospital (now Henry Ford Health). In 1916, James had a home built for himself and his family at 735 W Washington Avenue. Here's a look at what that home looks like over 100 years later courtesy of The Brokerage House

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

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