Michigan City Reaches 41% Clean Energy, Eyes 100% by 2040

A small Michigan city is proving that ambitious climate goals don't have to stay on paper. Traverse City Light & Power just approved a detailed framework to reach 100% renewable energy by 2040, becoming the first city in the state to commit to such an aggressive timeline back in 2018.

The utility has already hit 41% renewable energy and set a checkpoint of 60% by 2035. Executive Director Brandie Ekren called it a "milestone moment" as the team laid out exactly how they'll get there, tracking actual clean energy generation rather than just buying credits to check a box.

The plan works on three fronts. First, the utility will keep shifting to wind, solar, and other clean sources while exploring battery storage and encouraging customers to use power during off-peak hours when it's cheaper and cleaner.

Second, the utility is walking the walk by electrifying its own vehicle fleet and operations. "This is really the walk-the-walk part of it," said Sustainability Analyst Colin Hites, emphasizing that the utility needs to lead by example.

Third, they're helping the whole community reduce emissions by promoting electric vehicles and energy-efficient heat pumps. Since buildings and transportation cause most local emissions, switching to electric versions powered by a clean grid creates a double benefit.

The framework includes a critical promise: making sure low-income residents aren't left behind in the transition. The board built in equity, affordability, and reliability as core principles, with required reviews every five years to track progress.

The Ripple Effect

Traverse City's detailed roadmap arrives at a perfect time. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer just committed the entire state to 100% carbon neutrality by 2050 and announced plans to explore geologic hydrogen as a clean fuel source.

Michigan now ranks sixth nationally for clean energy jobs, and the state is investing millions in electric school buses, renewable energy for low-income families, and climate-resilient infrastructure. What started as one city's "audacious goal" is becoming a statewide movement.

Board member Elysha Davila urged her colleagues to stay ambitious: "I just want to encourage this body to not shy away from maybe over-ambition in pursuit of these really important goals."

Other cities watching Traverse City now have a proven blueprint showing that 100% renewable energy isn't just possible—it's already underway.