Commissioner Monica Martinez, of the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) was elected vice president of the Organization of MISO States (OMS) today at its annual meeting. 

As OMS vice president, Martinez will serve as the lead state representative on the MISO Planning Advisory Committee and the MISO Advisory Committee.  Both provide guidance to the MISO executive committee and the board of directors on policy directives related to transmission planning, allocation costs for infrastructure, and the regional electricity market.

"Tomorrow's green energy technologies are dependent on transmission planning and effective electricity markets," said Commissioner Martinez.  "I am honored to serve in a role that will ensure the electric grid is prepared for 21^st century generation."

"Commissioner Martinez has been recognized as a leader by her peers in the regulation arena," added Commissioner Steven Transeth.  "Her business savvy and strategic thinking will be an asset for Michigan and OMS, as she serves in this critical role."

The purpose of the OMS is to coordinate regulatory oversight among the states; making recommendations to the Midwest Independent System Operator (MISO), the MISO Board of Directors, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), other relevant government entities, and state commissions as appropriate; and intervening in proceedings before the FERC and in related judicial proceedings to express the positions of the OMS.

The following are OMS members (13 states, one province):  Illinois Commerce Commission, Indiana Regulatory Commission, Iowa Utilities Board, Kentucky Public Service Commission, Manitoba Public Utilities Board, Michigan Public Service Commission, Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, Missouri Public Service Commission, Montana Public Service Commission, North Dakota Public Service Commission, Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, South Dakota Public Utilities Commission, and Public Service Commission of Wisconsin.

Commissioner Martinez was appointed by Governor Jennifer M. Granholm to the MPSC in July 2005.

The MPSC is an agency within the Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth.