LANSING, MI, March 5, 2015 – The Michigan Chemistry Council today welcomed proposals for a comprehensive statewide energy policy to provide for long-term demands while meeting the standards of affordability, reliability, and sustainability.

“We applaud lawmakers for taking on this issue, which is of vital importance to Michigan’s economy and future. Our chemistry company members are significant ratepayers as well as major employers, and we look forward to working with policymakers on a constructive solution. We particularly urge policies to address our state’s electric rates, which continue to rank as the most expensive in the Midwest and above the national average. This is a true competitiveness issue for our industry and our state.”

(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.