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A Little Late, But Worth the Wait?
Growing Concern in Lansing Realized
Throughout the month of February, MEECA has been meeting with returning and new legislators on the Senate and House energy committees. As the meetings and
month progressed, MEECA members were made aware of a growing concern that could significantly negatively impact their business. Late in February we shared with our membership that the Michigan
House Energy Policy Committee chairman was soon to drop a bill to repeal Michigan's Energy Optimization (EO) programs. Yesterday, Aric Nesbitt (R) did just that. So, not wanting to
work off rumor, we waited until the draft bill dropped to issue February's Maven.
Earlier in the week Senator Mike Nofs (R), chairman of the Senate Energy & Technology Committee issued an outline for his vision of Michigan's future energy policies
which also included repeal of the EO programs. Additionally, just this week, Democrats from both chambers issued a press release supporting increasing the EO standard. Read more on
these developments below.
MEECA is an advocate for Michigan's energy efficiency industry -- period. Our membership is made up of a cross section of business types
and political persuasions. Following the direction of our board, MEECA espouses no particular political philosophy on the role of government. We have and will continue
to work both sides of the aisle to see that Michigan has the most robust energy efficiency industry in the nation.
As successful business owners, our members overcome the challenges imposed by onerous government regulation everyday. However, they also know that when it
comes to protecting the public interest regarding access to affordable energy supply, government's role is critical.
The deal struck almost 100 years ago through Title II, entitles utilities to maintain a monopoly position in exchange for having virtually every aspect of their
business be regulated; from being required to generate power all the way to the percent of net profit they get to earn. Earning a profit is a concept MEECA members fully
understand. Earning a guaranteed profit by law is a good gig if you can get it.
The challenge before MEECA and its members for the next few months of energy debate is: How do we ensure utilities deploy the most cost effective resource
available -- that being energy efficiency -- through what will continue to be a regulated industry?
One way is by increasing our Power In Numbers and having businesses who benefit from what have been proven to be the most cost effective energy
resource join together to advocate for Michigan's energy efficiency industry.
Join MEECA today as we advocate for an integrated
energy efficiency market.
Sincerely,
Brindley Byrd
Executive Director
brindley@meeca.info
517-203-9180
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An Integrated Energy Efficiency Market
Working with Stakeholders
Certainly the announcements this week coming from the Republican energy committee chairmen proposing to repeal Michigan's Energy Optimization (EO) programs brought serious concern throughout all
stakeholders in Michigan's energy efficiency industry. These stakeholders include:
- Local Community Action Agencies who utilize EO funding to help low income homeowners eliminate energy waste,
- Small and large businesses planning future energy efficiency upgrades that unlock spending throughout the economy,
- Contractors who utilize utility incentive programs to close more deals,
- Energy efficiency advocates who see the important role our EO programs play in securing affordable energy for Michigan
rate-payers,
- Michigan utility companies required to utilize cost-effective ways to provide power.
- Michigan rate-payers who are concerned with the impending significant rate-hikes.
Click here to read more about the proposals... |
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Make Plans to Attend the 2015 Michigan C&I Energy Conferences
Two Great Events. One Great State.
- Network one-on-one with energy efficiency experts
- Develop an energy efficiency strategy
- Attend informative breakout sessions
- Understand rebate and financing options
- Attend for FREE

Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities start at $150.
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MEECA Membership Continues to Grow
Our Power is Growing
During February, MEECA gained three new members who want to see that Michigan has the most robust energy efficiency industry in the nation.
- Ms Green Construction -- A Contractor Member, based in
Ann Arbor, MI providing home performance solutions throughout Southeast Michigan.
- Midwest Energy Solutions -- A Contractor Member, based
in Kalamazoo, MI providing energy efficiency solutions to their commercial clients throughout Michigan.
- Flame Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical -- A
Contractor Member, based in Warren, MI that provides home performance solutions throughout Southeast Michigan.
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MEECA Keeping PACE in Michigan
Register TODAY for PACE Training
MEECA has partnered with Lean and Green Michigan to provide a Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) contractor
training on March 11, 2015 in Williamston, Michigan from 10am to 2pm.

Attendees will receive live training on how to maximize the benefits of Lean & Green PACE financing for their business, a light breakfast, a PACE training manual (electronic and paper), and
marketing materials that can be used to incorporate PACE financing in project proposals.
The cost of the training is $125 for MEECA members or $150 per person for non-MEECA members.
These payments can be made via Paypal. For non-MEECA members, the $150 Lean & Green Michigan registration fee can be applied toward becoming a MEECA member.
Training Details:
Lean & Green Michigan and MEECA Training
Wednesday, March 11, 2015, 10:00am - 2:00pm
Keller Plaza - Energy Cafe
120 East Grand River
Williamston, MI
*Please note: This venue is located in downtown Williamston on the southeast corner of Putnam and Grand River. Google Maps will take you to the wrong location if you only search for "120 E. Grand
River."
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