The Department of Environmental Quality and the Michigan Public Service Commission signed a Memorandum of Understanding today to clarify their respective roles and responsibilities regarding the alternatives analysis review and technical assistance for the proposed coal-fired electricity generating plant applications currently pending before the DEQ.

The MOU affirms that the MPSC will provide technical assistance to the DEQ on all matters of electric generation need in the state as it relates to any analysis of potential alternatives to a traditional coal based power plant. Further, the MPSC will review the alternatives analysis for the proposed coal-fired plants to assess whether energy efficiency, renewable energy, or other alternatives would meet future electricity needs.

The DEQ will review the alternatives analysis for the coal-fired electricity generating plants to assess their impact on human health and the environment.

The provisions of the MOU will be implemented immediately and will assist the state in making the appropriate decisions regarding the future of Michigan's electrical generation.

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 April 2, 2009 by Pat Watson