Why investing in renewables matters beyond climate: economic opportunity, affordability, and energy security

A column in the Iola Register argues that renewable energy investment should not be viewed solely through a climate lens. The author points to three concrete benefits: economic opportunity in a global renewable market now exceeding 1 trillion dollars annually, energy affordability as renewables already supply nearly a third of U.S. electricity, and energy security highlighted by geopolitical risks like the Strait of Hormuz conflict. The piece notes that in May 2026 solar generated more electricity than coal for the first time in the U.S., even under a federal policy that favors fossil fuels. The column is written from a Michigan perspective, where the state House recently voted to repeal 2023 clean energy standards. The author argues the U.S. risks losing manufacturing and job opportunities to China in the fast-growing renewable sector. The piece does not dive into technical details on grid integration or storage, but it makes a clear case that renewables are competitive on cost and strategic value, not just environmental grounds.