(LANSING, MI) Energy cost competitiveness topped the list of policy priorities outlined today by the Michigan Chemistry Council (MCC) in its 2015 agenda . Noting that “Michigan’s costly energy proves to be a disadvantage to the chemistry industry and is a significant barrier to investment and job growth,” the MCC called for increased competition and effective regulatory oversight to advance energy affordability.

 John Dulmes, the MCC’s executive director, said that the MCC and its members will educate policymakers in Lansing on the importance of energy costs to Michigan’s jobs.

 “Michigan’s electric rates are the highest in the Midwest and are among the highest nationwide,” he said. “While our state has experienced a tremendous economic recovery, we will not be able to truly compete unless we address the energy cost issue. The Michigan Chemistry Council believes that, with the right policies in place, we can meet our state’s future energy demands in a sustainable and cost-effective way.”

 The MCC's Energy Policy Agenda  detailed specific policy initiatives in the four areas of competitive energy costs, energy efficiency, clean energy, and an adaptive Michigan energy policy.

 Environmental stewardship, education and skilled trades training, and regulatory reform are other policy areas of importance for the MCC in 2015. The Michigan Chemistry Council, established in 1967, represents Michigan’s chemical manufacturers, formulators and distributors. Chemistry is Michigan’s third-largest manufacturing sector, supporting nearly 120,000 Michigan jobs and generating $127 million in state and local taxes.

 For more information, please visit www.MichiganChemistry.com