October 4, 2023: Energy Efficiency Day

WHEREAS, energy efficiency is the cheapest, quickest, and cleanest way to meet Michigan’s energy needs, avoid dangerous pollution, and reduce utility bills for residents and businesses in our community; and

WHEREAS, implementing energy efficiency and other clean energy policies and programs can help boost economic opportunities and job creation while continuing to move Michigan toward a sustainable future; and

WHEREAS, smarter energy use reduces the amount of electricity needed to power our lives, which helps avoid power plant emissions that can harm our health, pollute our air, and warm our climate; and

WHEREAS, for states like ours that are trying to tackle harmful pollution, energy efficiency can get us about halfway toward our emissions reduction goals; and

WHEREAS, energy efficiency makes our homes and workspaces healthier, safer, and more comfortable; and

WHEREAS, cutting energy waste saves U.S. households billions of dollars on their utility bills every year, up to $500 per household from appliance efficiency standards alone; and

WHEREAS, improved energy codes for homes and commercial buildings also can significantly reduce utility costs and create new jobs; and,

WHEREAS, the residents of Michigan can continue to contribute to our energy efficiency efforts by learning about and participating in The MI Healthy Climate Plan, the state’s action plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition toward economy-wide carbon neutrality.

WHEREAS, a nationwide network of energy efficiency groups and partners has designated the first Wednesday in October as National Energy Efficiency Day; and

WHEREAS, together we can continue to contribute to our sustainability efforts by learning more about energy efficiency and practicing smarter energy use in our daily lives;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 4, 2023 as Energy Efficiency Day in Michigan.