NextEnergy CEO Applauds 21st Century Jobs Initiative

Governor proposes $2B investment in emerging technology R&D to create jobs

DETROIT, Feb. 9 -- NextEnergy CEO, James Croce applauds Governor Granholm's proposal to create 72,000 jobs by investing $2 billion to establish Michigan as a global center of research in new technology and emerging industries. The 21st Century Jobs Initiative would provide the vehicle to move Michigan beyond its manufacturing roots to fully embrace its role in the emerging new economy driven by technology. This initiative would ensure that Michigan businesses are poised to capitalize on the worldwide trend to reduce fossil fuel usage through the development of diverse energy supplies, including hydrogen fuel cells and bio-fuels.

"It is this broad view of energy diversity that will ultimately lessen the nation's dependence on foreign oil and create new jobs tied to alternative energy technology development," said Croce. "The Governor's bold approach towards job creation in the emerging clean technology sector aligns closely with the work of NextEnergy."

About NextEnergy

NextEnergy is a non-profit corporation founded to advance Michigan as a leader in alternative energy research, design, manufacturing, and commercialization for stationary, portable power, and automotive use.

The state-of-the-art NextEnergy Center, scheduled to open in spring 2005, will be the Michigan headquarters of NextEnergy with 45,000 sq. ft. dedicated to research and development, demonstration, and public education. Through its Microgrid Power Pavilion, the Center will include a working laboratory for advancing fuel cells and other distributed power generation technologies. NextEnergy is constructing alternative fuel infrastructure to support Michigan businesses in the development of hydrogen and bio-fueled vehicles and power generation systems.

For more information, visit http://www.nextenergy.org/ .