To the Journal editor:

One thing is clear to all of us: The Upper Peninsula faces unique energy challenges. Our geography isolates us from the rest of the state’s electric supply and has left us too reliant on out-of-state sources for our power. Rates are too high and we pay electricity bills much more expensive than the rest of the state, and most of the country.

Diversifying our energy sources is the best way to keep costs down for families and businesses. Despite what the ads on television might suggest, costs are not kept down by building large and expensive power plants. However, we can bring down costs by powering our homes and businesses by a variety of sources, including more clean, renewable energy and by reducing energy waste.

Clean energy and affordable energy go hand-in-hand. Renewable energy, like wind and solar, is now cheaper than coal. And according to the Michigan Public Service Commission, Michiganders saved $4.38 for every dollar invested in reducing energy waste-an incredible return on investment.

I recently had the opportunity to hear firsthand about the importance of strong clean energy policies from some winemakers near Traverse City. They provided a strong example of how clean and renewable energy can be a game-changer for Michigan businesses. Over the past decade, the Michigan wine industry has made great strides in reducing their operating costs through smart investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy. We need to encourage more of that innovation.

By increasing efficiency and renewables, businesses are able to reduce the amount of energy required in their daily operations, which is critical for growing businesses. Families are also seeing savings, via rooftop solar and more-efficient household appliances and lighting. Now we just need to enable Michiganders across the state to benefit by passing policies at the state level that will continue to drive growth in renewable energy and energy efficiency.

That’s why I’m a proud sponsor of the Powering Michigan’s Future Plan to double Michigan’s energy efficiency and renewable energy standards. This plan would put the U.P. on track to bring in new, cleaner, and more renewable sources of energy and help rein in rising electricity costs for U.P. residents.

I look forward to working with my colleagues in Lansing to ensure that renewable energy and energy efficiency are key components of our energy future because they bring down costs for families and businesses in the U.P.

State Rep. Scott Dianda

D-Calumet