State Representative Karl Bohnak announced new legislation on Tuesday aimed at supporting energy production in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. His plan seeks to exempt the region’s 13 Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engine (RICE) generators from the state’s green energy laws, which were passed in 2023. These generators were installed to stabilize the U.P.’s energy grid after the closure of the Presque Isle and Shiras coal plants in 2019. With a projected lifespan until 2050, the RICE generators are vital for energy production in the region. Without changes, the generators could be forced to shut down or undergo major operational changes as the green energy laws are enforced.
Rep. Bohnak, a Republican from Deerton, emphasized the need for local representation in decision-making. “The reason I’m in Lansing instead of enjoying an early retirement in Deerton is because I saw the negative impact state policies were having on our way of life in the U.P.,” he said. “These RICE generators are a perfect example of how state officials, 400 miles away, don’t understand the unique challenges we face here. People invested heavily in developing a clean, reliable energy source, only to see these efforts threatened by new laws. I’m working to make sure that U.P. communities have a voice, starting with protecting our RICE generators and energy production.”
Supporters and critics of the new energy laws agree that shutting down the RICE generators could raise costs significantly for Upper Michigan Energy Resources customers. A recent report from the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) highlighted the importance of the RICE generators, noting that they contributed to a 71% reduction in CO2 emissions in the U.P. between 2013 and 2022. Bohnak’s plan aims to safeguard the region’s energy supply, ensuring that U.P. residents continue to have affordable and reliable electricity.
Rep. Dave Prestin, a Republican from Cedar River, quickly expressed his support for Bohnak’s proposal. Prestin had strongly opposed the 2023 green energy legislation.
“These generators were installed to address serious concerns about the reliability of electricity in the U.P., the risk of higher energy costs, and potential damage to local industries like mining,” Prestin said. “The U.P. already has some of the highest energy rates in Michigan. Without action, energy costs could skyrocket, hurting jobs and making electricity unaffordable for residents and businesses. Not even a decade later, Lansing politicians are trying to roll back progress just because natural gas requires a flame to generate power. Karl is right—RICE generators provide clean, reliable energy for families across the U.P. They must remain operational.”
