Energy Efficiency

The picture of our present-day energy use comes from a sort of all-of-the-above menu. We use oil, gas, natural gas, nuclear, wind and solar. Research is underway to determine if the use of hydrogen can be used to significant scale as part of the energy diet. Ann Arbor has become central to the research and discussion on that matter. On this week's "Issues of the Environment," WEMU's David Fair was joined by the Associate Dean for Research at the University of Michigan College of Engineering, Todd Allen. They explored the environmental promise, uncertainties and controversies surrounding hydrogen energy.

Construction for Ann Arbor’s Fire Station 4, the city’s first carbon-neutral fire department building, is progressing, despite previous setbacks. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the details.

As we continue the process of mapping out our energy future, there are a number of issues to address, from energy generation and storage to how our electric grids are developed, secured and controlled. State Senator Jeff Irwin is a proponent of virtual power plants as a part of the comprehensive solution. It would divert control of the grids away from the major, centralized utilities. The 15th District Democrat believes virtual power plants can give power to communities in determining their energy futures while saving ratepayers money. Learn more in his conversation with WEMU's David Fair.

Ann Arbor’s Office of Sustainability and Innovations is reporting over 80% compliance with the city’s Energy and Water Benchmarking Ordinance. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer criticized tariffs and encouraged cooperation with trade partners during a Detroit Auto Show speech Thursday. Colin Jackson has more.

Ann Arbor State Senator Jeff Irwin says he wants to make the most out of 2026, his final year in the state Legislature. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

2025 is wrapping up, and one of the primary issues raised over the past year is the proliferation and impacts of data centers. In 2026, we're likely to see some of these centers move toward becoming operational. Weighing economic benefit against potential environmental harm will continue, and there will be more vocal support and outrage for each proposed center. WEMU's David Fair got together with Washtenaw County Resiliency Office Director Beth Gibbons to try and compute the impact of data centers in Washtenaw County.

A2ZERO’s Home Energy Advisor (HEA) Program has hit a milestone of helping over 500 households find ways to save money on energy and make their homes more sustainable. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the story.

The Trump Administration is ordering a coal-fired power plant in west Michigan to remain open another three months—just as a previous order was expiring. Colin Jackson has more.

Scientists from around the world are in Ann Arbor for a symposium on nuclear policy, technology, and education. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.