100%

CARBON-FREE

BY 2030

Michigan Co-ops are on track to be the first in the state to deliver energy that is 100% carbon-free. Most importantly, we’re doing it in a way that protects electric reliability and affordability.

Wolverine and its member cooperatives are navigating the clean energy transition thoughtfully, integrating clean and renewable resources while maintaining affordable rates and reliable electricity. Today, we power nearly 300,000 homes, businesses, and farms with energy that is 20% renewable and over 60% carbon-free. We’re on track to reach the state’s 2040 carbon-free target ten years early, helping Michigan meet its statewide clean energy goals.

Our Path Forward

Palisades Nuclear Power

We’ve entered a historic, long-term agreement to support the restart of the Palisades nuclear power plant in southwest Michigan. Nuclear energy is always available and carbon-free, complementing renewable sources and ensuring energy access regardless of weather conditions. Expected back online by late 2025, Palisades’ nuclear power guarantees access to reliable energy, even when the sun isn’t shining and the wind isn’t blowing.

Renewable Investments

As leaders in renewable energy, we have both wind and solar in our portfolio. Additionally, we’re expanding our capacity with two additional utility-scale solar arrays:

GAYLORD SOLAR

GEMSTONE SOLAR

Member Renewable Programs

We also empower members to achieve their own renewable energy goals. By offering community solar initiatives and other renewable energy options, we provide opportunities for our members to personalize their participation. The co-op model is about listening to communities, and with these programs, members customize their own systems while bringing more renewable energy to the cooperative.

Our Unique Cooperative Model

Since the 1930s, Michigan electric cooperatives have been at the forefront of energy innovation. When no one else would, we brought electricity to rural communities, powered by the collective determination of neighbors who believed in a brighter future. Unlike traditional utility companies, we are built by the community, for the community, and led by the community. This cooperative model ensures that every member has a voice in our operations and that every decision is made with the collective benefit in mind. Our board of directors is made up of members from the community, ensuring that our leadership is always aligned with the needs and values of those we serve.

A Legacy of Leadership

Our journey to carbon-free energy by 2030 builds on our legacy of pioneering milestones. Our commitment to reducing Michigan’s carbon footprint while maintaining affordable, reliable power underscores our role not just in lighting the way but leading it.

First Wind Farm

First Community Solar Array

First Brownfield to Brightfield Solar Development

Cooperatives Powered by Wolverine

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. We entered a historic, long-term agreement to support the restart of the Palisades nuclear power plant in southwest Michigan and purchase a majority of the power it produces.
  2. We’re expanding our renewable capacity with two additional utility-scale solar arrays: Gaylord solar and Gemstone solar
  3. We empower member-consumers to achieve their own renewable energy goals through community solar initiatives and other renewable energy programs.

Palisades is a key component of our plan. Our ability to achieve 100% carbon-free by 2030 is contingent upon the restart of Palisades, providing emission free, always available power to ensure that the lights stay on 24 hours a day 365 days per year.

Our 100% carbon-free roadmap is consistent with Wolverine’s 5 key strategic power supply pillars, particularly the long-term commitment to balance price stability and competitiveness. As power supply costs continue to be volatile, our agreement with Palisades Nuclear Power Plant allows us to lock in stable and predictable pricing for the future.

Late 2025

Our contract for power from Palisades Nuclear Power Plant will provide members
with reliable, clean and affordable energy for decades.