Upper Peninsula Office

Michigan Energy Options

In 2005, Michigan Energy Options opened our Upper Peninsula office in Marquette.  Since then, with the help of partners, Michigan Energy Options “North,” as we call ourselves internally, has been delivering dozens of programs that have allowed us to improve the energy efficiency and sustainability of communities across the U.P. Through energy conservation education programs, home and business energy assessments, energy upgrades in buildings, and the introduction of small-scale renewable energy, MEO has been a catalyst for the growing energy economy in the U.P.

MEO has reached more than 10,000 residents across the 15 counties of the U.P.  Our efforts include residential, community, government and business energy education and energy reduction programs of all kinds. We also work on sustainability issues like trail networks and Smart Streets because we believe that the unique quality of life in Marquette is a resource that must be nurtured and grown.

Among our most recent projects are:

Alger Energy Savers

In partnership with the Superior Watershed Partnership and the National Park Service, MEO provides free introductory energy assessments to residents and commercial businesses in Alger County.  This work is part of the National Park Service’s effort to address climate change within the gateway communities to its properties, and in this case, it is the inestimable Picture Rocks National Lakeshore between Munising and Grand Marais.

GreenWays Trails Map and Fund

MEO first introduced the GreenWays Trails Map in 2007 and it has since proven to be a popular and useful tool for residents, students and visitors in the City of Marquette. The maps include paths, roads, sidewalks and trails, including portions of the Iron Ore Heritage Trail and the Noquemenon Trail Network’s South Trails.

The map and signage on the trail provide guidance, awareness and respect for foot and non-motorized transportation.  Bicyclists, joggers, wheelchair users and skateboarders, among others, all share the trail—which contributes greatly to healthier lifestyles among residents and visitors.

The GreenWays Trails Map is an important component of Marquette’s growing national reputation as being community-oriented and environmentally responsible.  Currently, MEO and the Marquette Community Foundation are raising money to endow a fund to provide money for ongoing support of the trail. We encourage you to support the fund.

Low-Income Programs

As is the case throughout Michigan, many families in the U.P. struggle with harsh economic realities. In some cases, the choice they are forced to make with their budgets is between food and fuel. Reducing energy costs for at-risk populations is a proven solution to keeping families together by keeping them in their homes. MEO has run many low-income programs over the years, installing hundreds of new heating systems and appliances, weatherizing homes and educating residents how to conserve energy through simple behavior changes. MEO also works closely with social agencies like Community Action Weatherization, Salvation Army Utility Bill Assistance and USDA Rural Development to coordinate services.

State Programs

The Rebuild Michigan Program establishes energy baselines and reduction goals by identification of energy conservation opportunities and compilation of funding resources to afford action.  Such funding sources include preparation for Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grants, Energy Optimization utility programs, and loans with Michigan Saves and the Michigan Municipal Bond Authority.

As a Rebuild Michigan Technical Assistant, Michigan Energy Options helps to develop energy use reduction plans for businesses, governments and educational institutions.  Through this program each partner enters into a three party agreement with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. 

Contact us at 906.226.1136 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information.