State ranks No. 1 for utility energy efficiency programs
LANSING – A coalition of clean energy organizations is celebrating Michigan's utility energy efficiency programs ranking No. 1 in the nation, according to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy’s (ACEEE) 2025 State Energy Efficiency Scorecard.
Michigan’s high ranking regarding utility and public benefit programs highlights how energy waste reduction (EWR) efforts — resulting from successful advocacy in utility EWR cases and legislation — are lowering customer bills by cutting unnecessary energy use. It also showcases the dedication of advocates who helped land Michigan a top spot by fighting for these reforms.
The report shows that Michigan’s EWR programs, built on strong past policies, are delivering results in a cost-effective way. This track record of impact was a key reason advocates pushed for stronger EWR standards in the clean energy legislation successfully signed into law in 2023.
Advocates are urging the state to build on this progress in several ways, including adopting building codes that enhance energy efficiency and expanding budget investments to lower energy costs.
“We stand by and must continue pushing for strong clean energy policies, even while they face attacks both statewide and nationally,” said Andrea Pierce, policy director at Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition (MEJC). “By accelerating the transition to clean energy, new clean energy laws will lower energy costs for customers, reduce the carbon pollution that is disrupting our climate and leave a better future for the next seven generations to come.”
“Michigan's transition to 100% clean energy will make affordable, clean, efficient and reliable energy a reality for all Michiganders," said Alexis Blizman, policy director at Ecology Center. "We owe it to our kids and grandkids to protect them and their futures. Healthy energy efficient homes powered by clean energy will provide cleaner air and water while putting money back in families' pockets and creating good-paying jobs and tax revenue for communities."
"Michigan deserves this recognition for the policymaking achievements that help reduce energy burdens of families across the state," said Jenna Warmuth, senior manager of Midwest regional policy at Rewiring America. "This year we can build on this momentum by continuing to invest in what we know works, from weatherization to upgrades that specifically help rural communities, and deliver more savings to more Michaganders.”
“Michigan lawmakers passed groundbreaking legislation in 2023 that helps lower the cost of utility bills by transitioning to clean, efficient and renewable energy. Michigan can serve as a model for other states looking to reduce household costs,” said Mark Kresowik, senior policy director at the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). “To continue saving money for Michigan families, the state can adopt energy efficiency standards for household appliances and finalize updated building codes that reduce energy use in new homes.”
“This ranking proves that when we hold utilities accountable to their ratepayers, we can deliver real savings and cut energy waste - a win-win,” said Courtney Brady, Midwest deputy director at Evergreen Action. “Michigan’s policies to bolster efficiency programs show what’s possible, and we must continue building on this progress to ensure every household benefits from lower bills and a cleaner energy future.”
The coalition’s state budget asks for the 2026 fiscal year include the following:
- $5 million from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to reduce heating costs for rural Michiganders
- $10 million from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to help families update and weatherize their homes to save money and conserve energy
- $45 million from EGLE to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging and fleets
- Continued investment in the Going PRO Talent Fund to ensure workers gain the skills needed for high-demand jobs in the EV and clean energy sectors
- $5 million from the Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget (DTMB) to support the Energy Revolving Fund
- $1 million from DTMB to support the state fleet transition to electric
- $50 million increase (totaling to $276 million) from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to invest in local bus operating
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