In 2012, MSU created the first Energy Transition Plan as a result of student activism, particularly MSU Greenpeace and MSU Beyond Coal. The plan outlined MSU’s move from coal to natural gas as the primary source of energy, despite students’ push for a stronger commitment to renewables. Last year, the plan underwent its five-year review, yet this was all done behind closed doors, even though many students and community members were speaking up. Now, MSU is hosting a town hall to solicit feedback for the plan.
Although five years have passed since the initial plan, there are still no clear goals for achieving 100% renewable energy. The exact quote can be found below:
“The future Energy Plan for Michigan State University continues to view the transition to a 100 percent renewable energy portfolio as our vision for the future. However, rather than committing to a date by which this will occur, the new Energy Plan endeavors to, instead, commit to yearly increases of approximately three percent within this renewable energy portfolio.”
Most concerning is the inconsistency of this statement, as yearly increases of a set percentage will ultimately result in a definitive year for 100% renewable, reflecting on MSU’s desire to avoid committing to a strong goal.
Similarly, there is still a significant investment in fossil fuels, particularly natural gas, as a feasible solution. The decrease in emissions noted in the plan do not account for methane leakages created throughout the extraction of natural gas, known as hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. Without a thorough examination of the extent of emissions created by our fuel sources, no strong plan can accurately and confidently track the changes.
These are just two of the issues that need to be raised in regards to the Energy Transition Plan. The town hall is a chance for you to come speak, whether that be in support of MSU Greenpeace’s recommendations, which will be announced the week of the town hall, or in support of your own concerns and suggestions. Ultimately, this is a moment for student voices to be heard.
It should be noted that the administration did not invite MSU Greenpeace or other student groups, to our knowledge, to participate in the planning process. The official announcement of the town hall was sent out via email from Satish Udpa, Executive Vice President for Administrative Services, a week before. Furthermore, the town hall is happening a week before finals week, one of the worst weeks of the semester for most students.