August 05, 2010
August 5, 2010
In Washington remarks, governor says strategy to invest in advanced battery market has helped diversify economy, create jobs
LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today in remarks at the Center for American Progress in Washington, D.C. said that the nation must secure its clean energy manufacturing future. Granholm spoke on the one-year anniversary of the Recovery Act battery grants announcement in which Michigan received $1.35 billion.
"Investment in advanced batteries and other clean energy technologies is creating jobs in Michigan and around the nation," Granholm said. "Manufacturing is vital to our national economy and national security, and we must ensure that new clean energy manufacturing jobs remain here in the United States."
On August 5, 2009, Vice President Joe Biden came to Michigan to announce that $1.35 billion in U.S. Department of Energy grants, funded by the Recovery Act, had been awarded to several Michigan companies to support advanced battery and electric vehicle manufacturing and development. That total - $1.35 billion - was more than what the other 49 states received combined.
After just one year, 16 advanced battery companies now have ongoing projects in Michigan, representing almost $6 billion in capital investment and estimated to create almost 62,000 new jobs over the next 10 years.
"For clean energy manufacturing to locate and thrive in the United States, it's crucial that government and the private sector continue the collaborative partnerships that have been so successful in creating a domestic advanced battery industry," Granholm said.
Founded in 2003, The Center for American Progress works to develop new policy ideas and shape the national debate on 21st century challenges, including energy, economic growth and opportunity and education. The center is led by John D. Podesta and based in Washington, D.C.
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