August 3, 2006

Detroit Edison’s Harbor Beach Power Plant became Michigan’s 126th Clean Corporate Citizen (C3) today, joining the ranks of the state’s top environmental performers in the Department of Environmental Quality’s voluntary program recognizing environmental management and stewardship.

The Harbor Beach Power Plant is the third Detroit Edison facility to earn C3 status, joining the Fermi 2 Power Plant in Newport and the St. Clair Power Plant in St. Clair. In addition, all of Detroit Edison power plants are individually certified to the ISO 14001 environmental management standard, and several have received site certification from the Wildlife Habitat Council.

“I would like to congratulate the entire Harbor Beach Power Plant team for their work in protecting Michigan’s environment,” said DEQ Deputy Director Skip Pruss. “They are proving that meeting our energy needs and protecting our environment can go hand in hand.”

The Harbor Beach Power Plant has worked to increase access to Lake Huron by building five piers for use by the public. The company also participates in voluntary hardwood restoration projects, and has partnered with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, Michigan Sea Grant and other agencies to create a reef favorable for spawning activities of the endangered Lake Sturgeon.

"Achieving Clean Corporate Citizenship certification at Harbor Beach further exemplifies the dedication and commitment of our plants' employees, and a strong corporate support group to our environmental management system,” said Tim Kerry, Production Manager for the Harbor Beach Plant. “It is the culmination of many years of hard work toward environmental improvements and performance at the plant. We are proud to be recognized."

Ben Kiehl, Director, North Area Plants, added that the Harbor Beach Power Plant designation represents the company’s dedication to protecting the environment. “This is a wonderful recognition of the environmental stewardship that is prevalent throughout our power plants,” said Kiehl.

To qualify for a Clean Corporate Citizen designation, candidates must adopt a facility-specific environmental management system and active pollution prevention initiatives, and have a consistent record of compliance with applicable environmental requirements. Clean Corporate Citizens are eligible for certain regulatory benefits under the state’s environmental programs, including expedited permit approval. The program is open to any Michigan public or private business, educational institution, medical facility or governmental agency. Designations are valid for one year and must be renewed annually.

Editor’s note: DEQ news releases are available on the department’s Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

Protecting Michigan’s Environment, Ensuring Michigan’s Future”

Revised August 3, 2006 by Pat Watson