Biomass supported in Clean Power Plan rules Bioma

Biomass supported in Clean Power Plan rules
Biomass can be part of state implementation plans to comply with the Clean Power Plan, according to the final rules released Aug. 3 by the U.S. EPA.

The measure recognizes biomass as an important part of the nation's climate change initiative and provides opportunities for the biomass industry to continue provide renewable power along with rural jobs and forest stewardship.

The rules also acknowledge the ability of individual states to determine the sustainability requirements for eligible biomass feedstocks based on the state's unique resources.

The final rules differ from proposed rules issued last year. The deadline for state implementation plans and the first year of compliance have been extended by two years (2018 and 2022 respectively). There are off ramps for and reduced penalties for coal plants that have to keep running for reliability reasons, and energy efficiency targets have been eliminated because they're difficult to administer and enforce at a federal level. However, states are being encouraged to look at reduced energy consumption as a means to help comply.


EPA releases Clean Power Plan, uncertainty for biomass remains

http://biomassmagazine.com/articles/12260/epa...ss-remains


Nofs unleashes his energy reform proposal; critics and supporters weigh in

http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20150707...supporters

Energy bills introduced
Hearings have begun in the Michigan senate on a pair of bills that would dramatically change the electricity marketplace in the state.

SB 437 was introduced by Sen. Mike Nofs (R-Battle Creek), chair of the Energy and Technology Committee. It proposes to change how new power plants would be approved by the PSC, and make changes to the electric choice market by restricting access to those already approved to buy from alternative energy suppliers and those on a waiting list.

SB 438, sponsored by Sen. John Proos (R-St. Joseph), majority vice chair of the committee, would eliminate mandatory renewable portfolio standards, alter then repeal energy efficiency standards, and increase the size limitations and lower prices for owners of distributed energy systems that provide power to the grid, such as homes or business with small solar systems.

House bills were introduced last winter. They would "plateau" the 10% RPS requirement until sunset in 2029, end energy efficiency mandates and eliminate customer choice.

http://www.legislature.mi.gov/%28S%28a1yz5bhr...15-SB-0438