BAY CITY – A controversial Bay City coal plant violated state law when it failed to monitor hazardous coal ash at its two landfills in the Saginaw-Bay area and report leaks that potentially endangered people, the citizens group Lone Tree Council said today. The coal ash landfills belong to Consumers Energy, which operates the Karn-Weadock facility near Bay City. Coal ash leachate containing arsenic, boron, lithium and sulfate – all toxic chemicals linked to serious illnesses –have been previously discharged into Saginaw Bay from the sites. “Consumers Energy’s coal ash cover-up only puts local families at greater risk, highlighting the fact that Michigan must slam the brakes on coal and turn to more clean energy,” Lone Tree Council President Terry Miller said.
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Michigan Public Service Commission staff say the proposed Holland Board of Public Works coal plant expansion is only one of many options to meet future electric needs for the city's residents, including energy efficiency, renewables and other existing sources.  The PSC staff report goes to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment which will decide whether to issue an air pollution permit for this plant. Find out more and join our work to move Holland Beyond Coal by contacting Jan O'Connell!
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A coalition of consumers, watchdog groups, and environmentalists are taking to the airwaves to influence the board of directors voting for Cherryland Electric Co-op.  A series of TV and radio ads began airing June 7 to encourage co-op members to vote for anti-coal plant candidates who see clean energy options as better, more responsible business.  Read more ...

After almost three years of effort by Sierra Club's Beyond Coal Team and our many partners, we are celebrating victory as Governor Jennifer Granholm announced that the proposed coal plant in Rogers City would be denied a permit because there is no need for the power it would produce. Congratulations and thanks to the thousands of Sierra Club members and supporters who helped make this happen! Read more ...

CMS Energy shareholders are sending a clear signal they have deep concerns about the proposed coal plant near Bay City and the risk it poses to the company’s financial stability after a significant percentage of shareholders voted today in support of proposals from two investors calling on the utility giant to disclose risks associated with its coal ash disposal and cut greenhouse gas emissions. Read more ...