Gov. Rick Snyder last week signed the Michigan Comprehensive Energy Plan legislation into law. The landmark reforms are the culmination of several years of work and update key provisions of the state’s current energy laws.
This next generation energy policy will ensure the availability of affordable, reliable and renewable energy for Michigan families and job providers.
Most importantly, the pro-active plan puts Michigan consumers first and will empower our state to determine for ourselves which of the fuels are most cost-effective to meet our current and future energy needs and goals.
I was proud to work together with Sen. Mike Nofs, R-Battle Creek, to protect Michigan ratepayers and support our economy and way of life by enacting reforms that are not about the best interest of a few companies, organizations or individuals — but are about doing what is best for the entire state.
Senate Bills 437 and 438, now Public Acts 341 and 342 of 2016, will ensure providers have enough energy to meet demand; end mandates; require different types of fuels to compete with one another to see what is most cost effective; and create a statewide goal of 35 percent of resources derived from renewables or waste reduction.
One of our key objectives was to encourage more competitive rates for Michigan customers. We regularly heard from residents and business owners that their utility bills were too high, especially when compared to neighboring states.
With this reform, all consumers in Southwest Michigan will have the continued assurance that the lights will turn on and that we will use a mix of the best and most affordable fuels.
Customers now will also be able to utilize technology — such as an iPod or iPhone — to control their thermostats, washers and dryers when energy is the cheapest — through voluntary demand response programs.
I want to thank Sen. Nofs for his leadership on putting together a comprehensive plan that provides for fairness, adaptability, reliability and competitively priced clean energy.

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents southwest Michigan.