by Bruce Goodman

Michigan’s 2008 legislation requiring utilities to purchase energy from and/or to construct renewable energy projects was a drawn out battle with many compromises and a mixed outcome. The MPSC has now proposed implementing rules, and the alternative energy industry needs to pay attention. Rules can never be perfect “right out of the box.” [I am disappointed that neither Part 2 nor Part 3 addresses standby rates, which need to be restructured to better accommodate and encourage self generation.] Do the proposed rules provide the certainty needed for alternative energy projects to get financed and built? Those with experience need to weigh in and make the rules “more perfect.” Read the rules, identify the flaws, attend the hearing, propose alternative language, submit meaningful comments. Now. The devil IS in the details.

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by Bruce Goodman

In a series of orders, the Michigan Public Service Commission has approved the ground rules by which public utilities in the state will be implementing the RPS mandated by statute in 2008. Except for the competitive bid process for Detroit Edison, renewable energy plans, energy optimization plans, and surcharges were approved in late May. This utility has now submitted a more detailed description of the RFP and bid evaluation process for an expedited hearing. Under the various orders, the MPSC Staff will provide oversight and consultation to ensure competitive and fair RFP processes.

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