Michigan Rural Council

Rural communities contain unique topographical and geological assets that can deliver advanced biofuels and capture wind, solar and biomass energy.  The development of renewable energy resources may be an integral part of a holistic economic development.

MRC supports the efforts of the State of Michigan to encourage the development of renewable energy sources, to reduce overall energy consumption and reduce dependency on imported foreign energy resources.  MRC believes that the development of renewable energy can be an integral part of a rural economic development strategy.

To this end, MRC will advocate that these funds be used to:

• Invest in different types of renewable energy projects in rural communities that will result in a variety of power generation sources resulting in the diversification of the energy-generating portfolio in Michigan;
• Promote renewable energy development that supports local small business development and entrepreneurship;
• Promote energy efficient housing for low income households; and
• Promote energy conservation and efficiency in rural communities.