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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


Table of Contents  

Michigan’s Renewable Energy  and Efficiency Success Stories

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, NO_x 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.

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