From metromode, 7/23/2009
Michigan wants to speed up the transition from an automotive to an alternative energy focus in some smaller manufacturing plants And its plans to pony up some dough to do it.

The state is offering $15 million in federal stimulus funds to manufacturers that plan to diversify their portfolio and create new jobs in the alternative energy sector. That could mean turning a plant that makes car doors into one that also makes wind turbine blades, thereby saving manufacturing jobs while diversifying the state's economy.

Michigan companies with fewer than 500 employees, as well as businesses that relocate to Michigan by the time of the award, will be eligible. Interested firms will go through a Request for Proposal grant process to obtain the funding. The Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth will oversee the application process.

The business must be willing to diversify into manufacturing renewable energy systems or their components. That could include everything from wind turbines or solar panels or even either of their components. The only catch is, they must contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Michigan has been aggressively courting the alternative energy industry in recent years and has provided more than $1 billion in tax incentives for advanced battery companies and solar firms. For information on applying for the $15 million in manufacturing grants, click here or call (517) 241-6228.