Below is what Rep. Meerman’s office is stating as their official position. It seeks from Consumers Energy and other parties a delay in the closure and demolition of the Campbell plant, which is the position SaveTheCampbell.com now seeks all political leaders in Ottawa County unite behind.
Good afternoon, Joseph,
Thank you for contacting Rep. Luke Meerman to share the work you have undertaken to preserve the J.H. Campbell coal plant out in Port Sheldon. Rep. Meerman has strong concerns for Consumer’s planned closure of the Campbell plant, especially given recent efforts to transition energy production away from fossil fuels and toward renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar. Michigan is a cold state with harsh winters and a high energy demand as people must heat their homes; it is critical that energy providers do not weaken the energy grid by moving energy production toward non-traditional means. In 2021, the energy grid in Texas failed with catastrophic consequences and should Michigan’s energy grid fail in a similar manner, the outcome would be disastrous.
Rep. Meerman does not approve of the plan to close the Campbell plant and I will be certain to share the information you have provided here with Rep. Meerman so he is aware of the efforts in Ottawa County to preserve the power plant. Again, thank you for contacting Rep. Meerman to discuss your concerns with the planned closure of the Campbell plant.
Sincerely,
Matt Criado-Cano
Legislative Director
State Representative Luke Meerman