Michigan AG, Groups Challenge DOE Coal Plant Extension Order

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and multiple environmental groups are challenging a U.S. Department of Energy order that mandates the continued operation of the aging J.H. Campbell coal-fired power plant beyond its planned May 31 closure. They argue the DOE's declaration of an energy emergency in the Midwest is fabricated and unjustified, with state regulators and the Midcontinent Independent System Operator confirming that there is sufficient power supply for the summer. The DOE order, issued by Secretary Chris Wright, requires the plant to operate until at least August 21 to prevent potential electricity shortfalls, but critics view this as a federal overreach favoring fossil fuels over cleaner, more economical energy sources. The environmental coalition and watchdogs have filed a rehearing request, warning they may pursue legal action if the order is not rescinded. Consumers Energy is complying with the federal directive despite the controversy, which raises concerns about increased costs to ratepayers and undermines state-led energy planning. This dispute highlights broader tensions between federal energy emergency powers and state efforts to transition toward cleaner energy.