Here’s a weekly behind-the-scenes glimpse at some of the stories we’re following. Have a reading recommendation? Let us know at nina@planetdetroit.org.
A PFAS puzzle
High concentrations of toxic PFAS chemicals have been found in surface water foam on Muskegon Lake, puzzling scientists who have never seen such levels before. The foam, which tested at 4,757 parts-per-trillion for PFOS, has sparked concerns over potential contamination sources, including nearby industrial sites, though the exact cause of the recent foaming remains unclear. (MLive)
County sewage fight
Oakland County leaders pushed back against accusations from Macomb County officials regarding wastewater discharges into the Red Run Drain, defending their compliance with environmental laws. This dispute follows the introduction of state bills that would require counties like Oakland to seek permission from neighboring counties affected by discharges, a move Oakland officials criticize as unnecessary and costly, while Macomb County continues to express concerns about untreated sewage impacting water quality. (Detroit News)
Help wanted, wastewater edition
Retirements among water and wastewater plant operators, driven by the aging baby boomer workforce, are leading to significant shortages across the U.S., with automation unable to fully offset the loss of experienced workers. Despite increased training efforts, utilities face challenges in filling an estimated 10,000 positions annually, with digital skills becoming more important for the workforce of the future. (Michigan Public)
Marathon on strike
Teamsters Local 283 workers have been on strike at Marathon Petroleum’s southwest Detroit refinery since September 4, 2024, after contract negotiations stalled over union protections and subcontractor use. While the refinery continues to operate with non-union workers, a federal mediator has joined the talks, and concerns about safety and air quality remain heightened as production is set to increase under a newly approved permit. (WDET)
Spending to save
DTE Energy estimates it will incur $124 million in additional costs through 2030 to meet Michigan’s new renewable energy standards, but expects long-term savings of $1.2 billion by 2045, benefiting its customers. The utility’s renewable energy plan, filed in response to Michigan’s 2023 energy laws, includes significant investments in wind, solar, and battery storage, and is projected to have minimal impact on electric bills in the near term. (MLive)
Vehicle emission rule
The U.S. House voted largely along party lines to overturn a Biden administration rule on vehicle emissions, with Republicans criticizing it as an overreach that would harm the automotive industry, particularly by promoting electric vehicle adoption. While Democrats emphasized the health and environmental benefits of the rule, the resolution faces a likely veto from President Biden if it reaches his desk, with GOP lawmakers continuing to argue that the regulation would benefit China’s EV supply dominance. (Detroit News)
MI battery plants
Michigan will receive $355 million in federal funding to support four advanced battery production projects, creating over 500 permanent jobs and boosting the state’s clean energy sector. These investments, part of a broader $3 billion initiative under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aim to strengthen the domestic battery supply chain and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. (Crain’s)