utilities

Ann Arbor Congresswoman Debbie Dingell joined the progressive think tank The Center for American Progress (CAP) on Wednesday to blame the Trump Administration for higher Michigan energy prices. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

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.

The Ypsi Performance Space has hosted many community gatherings and musical performances over the years. Now, the venue is more eco-friendly, thanks to the recent installation of new electric vehicle chargers. Lee Van Roth talked all about the chargers and how they’ve created a better connection to the community with Ypsi Performance Space manager Steve Pierce.

The federal administration is cutting environmental programs and funding and further reducing regulations on polluting. The political environment in Washington, in and of itself, is toxic. On the February edition of WEMU’s "1st Friday Focus on the Environment," WEMU's David Fair and Michigan League of Conservation Voters executive director Lisa Wozniak were joined by Democratic Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin to discuss policy and politics.

A coalition of activist groups is asking voters to support limiting certain monetary contributions that might influence local politics. WEMU’s Ana Longoria reports.

Data centers continue to be a major topic of discussion and community concern. Right here in Washtenaw County, there are at least four data center projects proposed or in development. Washtenaw County Commissioner Yousef Rabhi opposed tax incentives while he was a state legislator and even more have passed since his departure. WEMU’s David Fair caught up with Rabhi to discuss his positions on AI and the need for data centers.

A Washtenaw County Commissioner will challenge incumbent Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor in the Democratic primary election in August. 8th District Commissioner Yousef Rabhi has formally announced his candidacy. WEMU's Caroline MacGregor talked with Rabhi about his platform and why he decided to run against the incumbent.

Ann Arbor for Public Power is kicking off its petition drive to create a public utility board. The group looks to collect 6,500 signatures by May in order to get the question on the November ballot. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

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.

As winter continues in Washtenaw County, monthly heating bills may be a source of sticker shock for some residents. WEMU’s Ana Longoria shares ways to save money while staying warm.