The 7th Annual Michigan Energy Innovators Gala on November 14th was a celebration of Michigan energy companies and the business leaders who are the catalysts for growth and change in the Great Lakes State energy sector. It was a packed house and a diverse attendee list for the Innovators Gala.
The most significant part of the evening had to be Governor Gretchen Whitmer, the Gala’s keynote speaker, signing solar energy legislation (on a full-size solar panel on stage). The recently passed bills would streamline taxation of residential and small commercial solar projects. The new laws would guarantee that solar panels are treated in the same manner as a new energy-efficient furnace or hot water heater, only increasing the property value of a home when the home is sold. This is a huge win for Michigan as it alleviates some of the confusion of taxation across the state when it comes to rooftop solar on Michigan residents’ homes and businesses.
The Governor expressed a solid commitment to create a balance, by allowing solar on farmland across the state at the same time protecting Michigan’s agriculture. Gov. Whitmer followed this commitment up with expressing her excitement that Michigan is “leading by example” with the numerous renewable energy projects and energy efficiency programs being launched at state facilities and parks.
As the evening progressed, the gala award presentations honored some of the innovators and leaders that are behind the enormous growth in Michigan’s energy sector. They included the following businesses, people and categories:
- Public Official of the Year- Liesl Eichler Clark, Director- Dept of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy
- Project of the Year award- East Lansing Community Solar Park
- Emerging Business of the Year- PACENERGIES
- Business of the Year- Walker-Miller Energy Services
- Energy Innovators Hall of Fame Inductees:
- Britta K. Gross- Managing Director- Rocky Mountain Institute
- Jim MacInnes- Chairman and CEO of Crystal Mountain Resort and Spa
As the evening began to wrap up, I reflected on the past year for our industry. I know Michigan’s future is bright when it comes to becoming a leader in advanced energy in the Midwest.With partners like the Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council, we are ready for the many challenges and opportunities for growth in 2020 and beyond. The grit and determination of Michiganders was evident through the accomplishments of the energy savvy businesses in attendance. Even more exciting was the future of energy innovation on full display at the Gala. The support and dynamic platform for success EIBC provides Inovateus and the advanced energy business sector of Michigan will put us on the right path to change the region in a big way!
By: Megan Drean – Business Development Manager
