MPSC annual report details state energy laws, federal tax changes and broadband expansion
For its 2018 annual report, released this week, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) responded to federal as well state-level changes, while enacting its own expanded efforts at modernization.
The report addressed the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, noting that the Commission approved two rounds of monthly refunds on bills for customers of rate-regulated utilities as a direct result of the legislation. In all, they oversaw the return of $379.5 million in annual savings and $233.2 million in additional credits.
At the same time, 2018 marked the first full year of the state’s new energy laws, which altered how the Commission tackled rate cases, expanded energy waste reduction programs and had them investigating electricity providers long-term plans and initial integrated resource plans. It also put the Commission to the task of approving new, voluntary green pricing options for customers wanting more renewable energy supporting their interests.
Even as all these major changes were underway, the MPSC had to continue its routine activities. In all, they made nearly 1,000 gas facility inspections and responded to 14 incidents. Focus on distribution lines saw 275 miles of infrastructure replaced, and increased attention to long-term distribution planning processes. Millions of dollars in low-income assistance grants were issued and numerous Commission rules were updated throughout the year. In total, the Commission issued 656 orders and minute actions on a variety of cases.
One of the MPSC’s major goals this past year, however, dealt with improved and expanded internet access. They credit their efforts with granting nearly 64 percent of Michigan homes access to broadband.
