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Michigan Incentives and Laws for Natural Gas

The list below contains summaries of all Michigan incentives and laws related to Natural Gas.

State Incentives

Alternative Fuel and Vehicle Research, Development, and Manufacturing Tax Credits

Qualified taxpayers may claim a non-refundable credit for tax liability attributable to research, development, or manufacturing of qualified alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) and renewable fuel. For the purpose of this incentive, AFVs include fuel cell, electric, hybrid electric, natural gas, E85, liquefied petroleum gas or propane, and hydrogen vehicles. Renewable fuels include biodiesel blends of at least 20%. The Michigan NextEnergy Authority must certify eligible taxpayers. Additionally, businesses located within the designated Alternative Energy Zone that are engaged in qualified activities may claim a credit for the qualified payroll amount. (Reference Michigan Compiled Laws 207.821-207.827 and 208.1429)

Alternative Fuel Development Property Tax Exemption

A tax exemption may apply to industrial property that is used for, among other purposes, high-technology activities or the creation or synthesis of biodiesel fuel. High-technology activities include those related to advanced vehicle technologies such as electric, hybrid electric, or alternative fuel vehicles and their components. To qualify for the tax exemption, an industrial facility must obtain an exemption certificate for the property from the Michigan State Tax Commission. (Reference Michigan Compiled Laws 207.552 and 207.803)

Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Tax Exemption

Qualified AFVs are exempt from personal property taxes. The exemption only applies to personal property that is new to Michigan. To be eligible, the vehicle must not have been previously taxed or exempted from taxation under another law. Eligible vehicles must also:

  • Be produced by an original equipment manufacturer;
  • Meet the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards;
  • Meet local emissions standards; and
  • Be propelled by natural gas, fuel blends containing at least 85% ethanol), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG, or propane), or fuel blends containing at least 85% methanol), or be a fuel cell vehicle, electric vehicle, or hybrid electric vehicle.

The Michigan NextEnergy Authority must certify the vehicle in order for it to be eligible. The exemption expires on December 31, 2012.

(Michigan Compiled Laws 207.82 and 211.9(i))

Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Emissions Inspection Exemption

Dedicated AFVs powered by compressed natural gas, propane, electricity, or any other source as defined by the Michigan Department of Transportation are exempt from emissions inspection requirements. (Reference Michigan Compiled Laws 324.6311 and 324.6512)