The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today issued an order approving $14 million in low-income energy efficiency grants to five organizations for the fiscal year beginning October 1.

"My fellow Commissioners and I are extremely pleased to announce these grants," said MPSC Chairman Orjiakor Isiogu.  "The grants awarded today will help improve the energy efficiency of low-income customers' homes, and as a result reduce energy consumption and lower yearly heating costs."

The Commission on April 1 issued a request for proposals for low-income energy efficiency grants.  Based on its review, the MPSC awarded the following grants:

• Department of Human Services - $10,361,522 in total for statewide distribution to low-income households for energy efficiency upgrades, with up to 20 percent of the grant available for energy education.
  
  
• Newaygo County Community Services - $859,211 for weatherization of low-income homes in the mid-Michigan area.
  
  
• United Way for Southeastern Michigan - $1 million for matching grants to non-profit facilities for energy efficiency upgrades, energy efficiency audits, and energy efficiency weatherization education.
  
  
• Urban Options, Inc. - $917,894 for weatherization of low-income client's homes, with a focus on heating systems and energy education.
  
  
• WARM Training Center - $861,373 for energy education for customers who receive energy assistance.

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