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Quick Take: More and more people are getting wise to the right way to sell smart energy to the public -– namely, link it to more jobs. The latest example comes from the supporters of a Michigan ballot measure to require 25% of energy to come from renewable sources by 2025. They are citing a new study from Michigan State University that claims passage of the bill would create $10 billion in new investments and lead to 74,000 new jobs. - By Jesse Berst

The results were announced by supporters of the Michigan Energy Michigan Jobs renewable energy ballot proposal.

"This report illustrates the tremendous boost to Michigan's economy that a strong renewable energy standard will have," said Chris Kolb, president of the Michigan Environmental Council. The council commissioned the study. "It's a job creating machine," Kolb said, "with the added benefit of cleaner air, improved public health and healthier communities."

The MSU report says the state has enough wind, solar, hydropower and biomass to exceed the state's energy needs and help support economic development. The new jobs would come in the form of construction, operations and maintenance and manufacturing and could total between 74,495 and 113,845 if the measure, which is being referred to as the "25 by 25 standard," is enacted.

The ballot proposal is opposed by utilities and business groups. The MSU report is at odds with a study by former Republican Senate Majority Leader Ken Sikkema that was released in July. That study said the constitutional amendment would cost $10 billion if enacted and that it would constrain the state's energy options, according to a story in The Detroit News.

Jesse Berst is the founder and chief analyst of Smart Grid News.com, the industry's oldest and largest smart grid site. A frequent keynoter at industry events in the U.S. and abroad, he also serves on advisory committees for Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and the Institute for Electric Efficiency. He often provides strategic consulting to large corporations and venture-backed startups. He is a member of the advisory boards of GridGlo and Calico Energy Services.

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Read the MSU jobs report