In an appearance on CBS Detroit's Michigan Matters, U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg shared their perspectives on the future of energy and transportation in the state and nation.
U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg joined CBS Detroit's Michigan Matters on Sunday, offering insights into their visions for the future of energy and transportation in the state and beyond.
Granholm and Buttigieg Discuss Michigan Energy and Transportation Future
Granholm, a former Michigan governor, highlighted the importance of clean energy investments. "Michigan has a long history of innovation in the energy sector, and we can continue to lead the way in the transition to a clean energy economy," she said. "We have the workforce, the resources, and the expertise to create jobs and grow our economy while protecting our environment."
Buttigieg emphasized the need for modernizing infrastructure and promoting accessible transportation options. "Michigan, like many states, has aging infrastructure that needs to be upgraded to support a growing economy and population," he remarked. "We're committed to working with state and local partners to ensure that our transportation system is safe, efficient, and equitable."
Granholm stressed the role of federal investments in supporting Michigan's energy transition. "Michigan is poised to become a hub for clean energy production and innovation, and we need support from the federal government to make that happen," she said. "The Biden administration's infrastructure plan includes significant funding for clean energy projects, and we're going to work hard to make sure Michigan gets its fair share."
Buttigieg discussed the need for collaboration between federal, state, and local governments in addressing transportation challenges. "We want to make sure that our transportation system works for everyone, regardless of where they live or how they get around," he said. "We need to invest in public transit, bike lanes, and other forms of transportation that reduce traffic congestion and provide mobility options for all."
Granholm emphasized the economic opportunities presented by the clean energy transition. "Investing in clean energy isn't just good for the environment, it's also good for our economy," she said. "Clean energy jobs are growing rapidly, and we need to make sure that Michigan workers have the skills and training to meet the demands of this growing sector."
Buttigieg discussed the potential for Michigan to be a leader in electric vehicle manufacturing. "Michigan has a long history in the automotive industry, and it's well-positioned to be a leader in the transition to electric vehicles," he said. "We're working with automakers and other stakeholders to support investments in electric vehicle production and charging infrastructure."
Granholm highlighted the importance of energy efficiency measures in reducing carbon emissions. "We need to make our homes and businesses more energy-efficient, which will lower costs for consumers and businesses while also reducing our reliance on fossil fuels," she said. "Michigan has been a leader in energy efficiency programs, and we need to continue to build on that success."
Buttigieg discussed the need for transportation systems that promote sustainability and reduce pollution. "We want to make our transportation system more sustainable, and that means reducing emissions from vehicles," he said. "We're investing in clean energy buses, electric vehicle charging stations, and other technologies that will help us meet our climate goals."
Granholm and Buttigieg concluded their appearance by expressing optimism about the future of energy and transportation in Michigan. "Michigan has always been a state of innovation and progress, and I'm confident that we can continue to lead the way on clean energy and sustainable transportation," Granholm said. "We have the resources, the expertise, and the commitment to create a better future for our state and our nation."
