Energy Efficiency Numbers Up in MI

With all the talk about the energy crisis in the U.P., there is some good news on the state’s effort to improve its energy usage. According to a report by the Public Service Commission and the Michigan Energy Office, Michigan is exceeding its targets to-date and is expected to meet near-term targets on energy efficiency. The report found electric utilities were 132 percent of the target, and natural gas utilities were 121 percent of the target. The targets were established in a 2008 law. The law requires all electric and natural gas utilities in Michigan to establish energy optimization programs delaying the need for new electricity generation, reducing emissions, encouraging local job creation, and reducing customers’ utility bills. PSC Chairman John Quackenbush says for each dollar spent on utility energy optimization programs last year, it’s estimated customers benefit from about $3.75 in avoided energy costs. Statewide funding for EO programs in 2013 was $253 million, which will result in savings of $948 million to customers over the lifetime of the measures installed.