LANSING, Mich. — Michigan’s clean energy future is facing growing uncertainty after recent federal rollbacks on climate protections.
The state has committed to reaching carbon neutrality by 2050, with major investments in renewable energy and workforce training. But in March, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency canceled more than 400 environmental justice grants, cutting off funding to disadvantaged communities for air and water quality improvements.
Bentley Johnson with the Michigan League of Conservation Voters says that the move undermines promises already made. Michigan led the nation in 2024 for clean energy projects, according to the group Climate Power — with 74 projects announced, creating over 26,000 jobs and bringing in nearly $27 billion in federal investment.
Still, with more than $50 billion in clean energy projects now stalled or canceled nationwide, Johnson says maintaining momentum will be a challenge — but not impossible.