It’s been a busy month of bringing people together to turn ideas into action. We hosted a fleet event, gathered with members and partners around hydrogen, and saw continued momentum around Michigan’s investment in geologic hydrogen. You can read more about all of that below.
Michigan already has a strong set of policies in place. There’s certainly more to be done. But there are also plenty of opportunities already in front of us. Now it’s time to put those policies and investments to work.
And speaking of momentum, we’re getting closer to DISRUPT! on September 24th. We’re especially excited to celebrate Clean Fuels Michigan’s 10th anniversary and the progress we’ve made together over the past decade. Below, get a preview of three DISRUPT! lightning talks and other exciting event details, including the opportunity to get a new free headshot and more.
As EV adoption grows, smart charging and increased electricity sales can help utilities use existing infrastructure more effectively and bring costs down for everyone.
A national analysis by Synapse Energy Economics found that EV drivers contributed $3.12 billion more in utility revenue than they cost to serve between 2011 and 2021. Michigan utilities are seeing similar potential, with Consumers Energy projecting $755 million in downward rate pressure and DTE Energy forecasting approximately $1.8 billion in long-term rate relief from transportation electrification.
Michigan Invests $7.5 Million to Explore Geologic Hydrogen
The Michigan Infrastructure Office has announced $7.5 million through the Make It in Michigan Competitiveness Fund to support research, mapping, exploration, and test drilling to determine how to recover geologic hydrogen safely and economically.
“Geologic hydrogen is a promising new piece of Michigan’s clean fuels future. Investing in a naturally occurring resource plays to Michigan’s strengths in energy and advanced manufacturing, puts the state at the forefront of an emerging industry, and creates new opportunities for investment and economic growth.” said Jane McCurry, Executive Director at Clean Fuels Michigan.
The investment could help Michigan better understand geologic hydrogen's potential to lower energy costs, create jobs, support manufacturing, and provide a new clean fuel resource for hard-to-decarbonize sectors such as heavy-duty transportation.
Earlier this month, Michigan Clean Fuels Institute, Clean Fuels Michigan, and Michigan EIBC brought together fleet, industry, and policy leaders in Grand Rapids for a public convening focused on fleet electrification. Attendees learned about available funding opportunities and incentives and heard real-world perspectives on evaluating fleet needs and determining whether electrification is the right fit for their operations.
Hosted by our member, Hoekstra Transportation Inc., the event also included a tour of the company’s shop floor and partner Mercedes' new showroom.
The discussion provided valuable tools, connections, and insights to help Michigan fleet managers make informed decisions about their next steps.
Looking for fleet electrification resources? Visit the Clean Fleets Resource Hub for funding opportunities, tools, and additional information.
Clean Fuels Michigan was proud to support the Hydrogen Ride & Drive, hosted by Oakland County, which brought together more than 160 community leaders, innovators, business developers, and hydrogen enthusiasts to experience hydrogen technology firsthand.
Congratulations to all of the exhibitors and supporters who made the event a success, including Clean Fuels Michigan members Bosch USA and Noble Gas Systems, who showcased their technologies and expertise.
FTA Low-No Transit Grants The FTA is accepting applications for projects including purchase or lease of transit buses, bus facilities, and equipment, as well as low- and zero-emission buses and supporting charging, fueling, and maintenance infrastructure. Eligible zero-emission technologies include battery-electric and hydrogen fuel-cell buses. Applications are due Sep 21, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.
EGLE's Fuel Transformation Program supports the replacement of diesel-powered equipment and transportation, with some projects eligible for up to 100% funding. Total expected funding is ~$28 million, with individual awards ranging from $50,000 to $5 million. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until all funding has been awarded.
Michigan fleet owners can apply for rebates to purchase new propane vehicles or convert existing vehicles to propane this year. Funding is available until funds are exhausted or until Dec 31.
Visit our Funding Hub for a comprehensive list of clean mobility funding opportunities in Michigan.