6/24/2025

NEGAUNEE – Yesterday Republicans showed their support for the use of natural gas in Negaunee.  Lawmakers spoke with community leaders to promote the importance of getting two bills through the Senate that would protect the U.P.’s 13 natural gas reciprocating internal combustion engine (RICE) units.  The legislation passed the House with bipartisan support.  Natural gas RICE generators were installed in the U.P. in 2019, replacing coal power plants.  But in 2023, Democratic-led clean energy laws were signed into effect to ensure Michigan gets 100% of its energy from renewable sources by 2040.  Keeping the RICE units online has strong support from United Steelworkers and Auto Workers.  The bills must now pass the Senate and then be signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-Michigan) to become law.