Michigan Renewable Energy Success Stories

Introduction

For the last 120 years, most of our energy has come from burning fossil fuels: coal, oil, and natural gas. Abundant and inexpensive fossil fuel supplies are dwindling. Fossil fuels are non-renewable and create a variety of emissions (including CO2, SO2, NOx and other pollution) when burned. Before fossil fuels were used, most of humankind’s energy needs were met by renewable sources: the sun (solar), wind (wind power), water (hydro), underground heat (geothermal) and growing plants (biomass). Renewable energies last forever and cause very little pollution. Advanced technologies, tapping the endless energy of the sun, wind, and plants, have increased our energy options. These renewable energy sources can supply our energy needs while helping our environment. Renewables aren’t new or experimental; they’ve been in use for decades, right here in Michigan.

Sustainability has been defined as "that which meets all the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." ¹ Use of fossil fuels is not sustainable. Once they are used there will be none left for future generations.

1 The World Commission on Environment and Development (Brundtland Commission), Our Common Future (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1987), pg. 8

Table of Contents

Home page

Introduction

Michigan Renewable Energy Success Stories

Our Energy Challenges

The History of Renewable Energy Use

What WE Can Do With Energy Efficiency and Renewables

Summary

Review Worksheet

Sources for More Information