Michigan EIBC to Recognizes Senator Dale Zorn For Work on Energy Issues

The Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council (EIBC) has recognized State Senator Dale Zorn (R-Ida) as Public Official of the Year for his work on energy issues and legislation.  The award was presented jointly to Senator Zorn and his colleague, Senator Jim Ananich (D-Flint), at the Energy Innovators Gala in East Lansing November 10.

In presenting the award the Michigan EIBC noted Senator Zorn is a thoughtful leader who works to support, promote and balance the needs of his district and those of the state, and actively seeks to understand the complex energy industry.

“My interest in renewable energy really grew out of a relationship with a new company that moved into Monroe called Ventower Industries,” said Senator Zorn.  “I wish to thank Ventower for helping me understand renewable energy and the Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council for this very special recognition.”

As a member of the Senate Energy and Technology Committee, Zorn championed an increase in Michigan’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) to 15 percent by 2021, a provision that was included in energy legislation (SB 437 and 438) that received bipartisan approval prior to the awards ceremony.  The package has been sent to the Michigan House of Representatives for approval.

“The leadership and enthusiasm for clean energy in the public and private sectors is continuing to grow in the state of Michigan,” said Liesl Eichler Clark, president of the Michigan EIBC.  “Across the board we’re witnessing the companies and individuals who are working hard to make clean energy an attractive option for consumers, as well as public officials like Senator Zorn who are supporting those efforts.”

Other Michigan EIBC honorees included:

Business of the Year: McNaughton-McKay with offices in Madison Heights, Ann Arbor, Flint and Saginaw.
Emerging Business of the Year: Inmatech with offices in Ann Arbor and White Lake.
Employer of the Year: Walker-Miller Energy Services with offices in Detroit.
Energy Innovators Hall of Fame: Allan O’Shea of CBS Solar of Copemish.

The Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council (EIBC) is a business trade association representing companies in Michigan’s growing advanced energy sector. Michigan EIBC’s mission is to grow Michigan’s advanced energy economy by fostering opportunities for innovation and business growth and offering a unified voice in creating a business-friendly environment for the advanced energy industry in Michigan.