The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today issued an order approving $1,686,370 in Michigan energy efficiency grants for all customer classes to two organizations.

"My fellow Commissioners and I are extremely pleased to announce these grants," said MPSC Chairman Orjiakor Isiogu.  "The grants awarded today will move Michigan forward in garnering the research and tools needed to establish the feasibility of the deployment of offshore wind technologies in Michigan."

The Commission on November 20, 2009 issued a request for proposals for Michigan energy efficiency grants for all customer classes.  Based on its review, the MPSC awarded the following grants:

• Grand Valley State University, Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center, in partnership with the University of Michigan Memorial Phoenix Energy Institute - $1,336,370 to conduct and/or perform studies to explore the feasibility of deployment of offshore wind technologies in Michigan.
• Superior Watershed Partnership - $350,000 to conduct and/or perform studies to explore the feasibility of deployment of offshore wind technologies in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

The grants are part of the Low‑Income and Energy Efficiency Fund, which provides energy bill assistance for low‑income customers and promotes the efficient use of energy by all customer classes.

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

Case No. U-13129