The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a Michigan energy efficiency grant for all customer classes.  The grant is funded by the Low-Income and Energy Efficiency Fund.

The grant makes available up to $4 million for the demonstration of grid connected advanced energy storage technologies.  Energy storage refers specifically to the capability of storing electrical energy that has already been generated, and controllably releasing it for use at another time.  The demonstration projects may include mechanical technology systems such as compressed air and flywheel systems, or advanced batteries and super capacitors.

"This grant will go a long way toward making Michigan the advanced battery capital of the world," noted MPSC Chairman Orjiakor Isiogu.  "Monies from the Smart Grid Energy Storage grant will benefit Michigan residents, businesses, educational institutions, and/or government agencies through the development and marketing of advanced energy efficient technologies."

A pre-proposal conference will be held for this RFP at 10 a.m. on Wed., April 22, at the Commission's office, located at 6545 Mercantile Way, in Lansing.  Questions that arise as a result of this RFP may be asked at this conference.

The deadline for proposals is 12 noon on Thursday, May 7.

The RFP is located on the MPSC's Web site:  michigan.gov/mpsc.

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

Case No. U-13129