The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today directed HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative (HomeWorks) to make certain filings and to meet with the MPSC staff as it transitions to a member-regulated cooperative.

The utility on Jan. 6 adopted a resolution to become member-regulated, in accordance with Public Act 167 of 2008, the Electric Cooperative Member-Regulation Act.  The utility will become member-regulated on April 7, assuming it fulfills all of the notice and hearing requirements of the Act.  It would become the third electric cooperative to become member-regulated since the new law became effective.

As a member regulated cooperative, HomeWork's board of directors will be responsible for establishing, maintaining and applying all rates, charges, accounting standards, billing practices, and terms and conditions of service.  The MPSC retains jurisdiction over certificates of need and enforcement of administrative rules dealing with areas served and line extensions.

Today's order directs the utility to file documentation within seven days to show compliance with the notice and hearing requirements of the law and to begin a dialogue with the MPSC staff no later than Feb. 8 to discuss issues related to the transition.  The MPSC staff is directed to report to the Commission by Feb. 26 on the results of those discussions.

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

Case No. U-16185