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Michigan advances clean energy leadership with battery storage

Battery energy storage is crucial to making Michigan’s electric grid cleaner, more reliable and more resilient.  These systems store electricity when supply exceeds demand and release it back to the grid when energy is needed. For example, on sunny or windy days, solar panels and wind turbines generate extra energy. Through battery storage, that energy can be saved and used on days with less wind or sunshine. This important process helps prevent blackouts, stabilizes energy costs and ensures renewable energy is dependable 24/7.

The Tibbits Energy Storage Facility in Coldwater is Michigan’s first operational utility-scale battery project. Developed in partnership by Jupiter Power and Consumers Energy, the 100 MW facility captures excess energy during low demand and delivers it when the grid needs it most—helping stabilize electricity prices and strengthen reliability for local providers. Beyond its role in fulfilling Michigan’s 2023 clean electricity law, which requires 2,500 MW of battery storage by 2030, the project delivers $1.7 million in benefits to Coldwater Township. These benefits include nearly $2.5 million in new tax revenue for schools and local government and supporting good-paying jobs.

“Battery storage is the backbone of a clean, affordable and reliable energy system,” said Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) Director Phil Roos. “Projects like the Tibbits Energy Storage Facility are a testament to what’s possible when innovation, forward-thinking policy and strong partnerships come together. This project is helping us deliver on Governor Whitmer’s clean energy goals, create jobs in Michigan and strengthen communities across the state.”

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) is supporting the development and deployment of utility-scale battery storage like Tibbits across the state. Through programs like the Renewables Ready Communities (RRC) Award, EGLE provides municipalities that host or permit large clean energy projects with up to $5,000 per megawatt to reinvest in infrastructure, public services and local priorities, ensuring nearby communities benefit directly.

The state is also advancing clean energy and climate goals through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRG), which provides funding to support the MI Healthy Climate Plan and helps cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids implement local initiatives that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, support sustainable development and strengthen community resilience.

Together, RRC and CPRG give communities tools and resources to maximize the benefits of clean energy while advancing Michigan’s climate priorities.

To learn more about Michigan’s clean energy leadership, the Renewables Ready Communities program, and federal funding opportunities through CPRG, visit the Office of Climate and Energy’s webpage.

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