Politics

JACKSON - On Monday, Consumers Energy became the fourth energy company in the United States to use drones to inspect power lines, equipment and wind turbines. The first flight of the unmanned aerial vehicles was in Jackson County, Consumers announced. "We're in the process of using UAV technology on a limited basis and analyzing if

LANSING - The Michigan Strategic Fund has issued $700,000 in grants to two companies that will invest $15.5 million to expand their operations in Michigan. As a result, some 185 new jobs are expected to be created. "Today's actions offer further evidence of our commitment to help companies grow and generate new job opportunities for

GRAND RAPIDS - West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum's July 13 membership meeting is a luncheon program on sustainability issues at Spectrum Health and the launch of Grand Rapids' first commercial bike-share program. The program is scheduled for noon at Grand Valley State University's new Seidman Center. Featured speaker is Steve Heacock, Senior Vice President for

LANSING - The demand for energy in Michigan is projected to increase across all sectors in 2015, assuming a return to normal summer weather and reflecting continued price advantages in the natural gas and petroleum markets, the Michigan Agency for Energy said Friday in releasing its Summer 2015 energy appraisal report. Commercial and residential customers

LANSING - The Midcontinent Independent System Operation, which oversees transmission of electric power to some 15 states including Michigan, has released survey results indicating there may not be an electric shortage crisis soon as some utilities have suggested and that has interests on both sides of the energy debate talking. The 2015 survey conducted by

ANN ARBOR - I don't often talk directly to my readers and listeners, but I wanted to share some exciting news with you about a new company I am a partner in called VideoMeeting. We will be launching the beta test in July and need you, my readers and listeners, to sample our cloud-based video

DENVER - Xcel Energy's Public Service Company of Colorado RFP seeking 10.1 kW to 2 MW solar energy and associated renewable energy certificates (RECs) that are generated from Community Solar Gardens. This RFP is a part of Public Service's Solar Rewards Community program. The total available program capacity is between 6 and 29.5 MW. For

DETROIT - In my admittedly limited experience on this earth, I've observed that the most productive and fulfilling relationships are those that have been cultivated over time and built upon a foundation of honesty, clear communication, and reciprocity. This applies to professional, investment, and even romantic relationships alike. While I will stick to professional and

  EAST LANSING - If you are looking for an entry-level job in the energy industry, CLEAResult has hundreds of opening nationwide, including more than a dozen in Michigan. CLEAResult is hired by major utility companies, such as DTE and Consumers, to perform energy audits on homes and businesses. CLEAResult has more than 50 offices

DETROIT - Wayne County Executive Warren Evans has requested that the state find a financial emergency in the county and enter a consent agreement to help the county address its debt. Though the county has reduced its annual deficit to $9.9 million for the current fiscal year from $157.5 million in FY 2012-13, Mr. Evans