In response to a request by several utilities and the Michigan Electric and Gas Association, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today started an investigation into appropriate rules and regulations for the direct participation of Michigan retail customers into a regional transmission organization (RTO) wholesale market.  While this investigation is pending, the MPSC is temporarily restricting such participation.  The Commission is also inviting public comments on this matter.

On Aug. 13, The Detroit Edison Company, Indiana Michigan Power Company, and the Michigan Electric and Gas Association filed an application seeking an order initiating an investigation into the rules and regulations governing the direct participation of Michigan retail customers into an RTO wholesale electric market, including customers who choose to participate with aggregators of retail customers.  They are also seeking a determination on the licensing requirements and appropriate rules and regulations related to the activities of these customers.  Consumers Energy Company on Aug. 21 also joined the filing parties. 

The filing comes in response to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) rule known as the Wholesale Competition in Regions with Organized Electric Markets. 

Interested persons may submit written or electronic comments on appropriate rules and regulations for the direct participation of Michigan retail customers into an RTO wholesale market.  Comments must be filed with the Commission no later than 5 p.m. on Dec. 4.  Reply comments must be filed no later than Jan. 6, 2010.  All written comments should be addressed to:  Executive Secretary, Michigan Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 30221, Lansing, MI  48909.  Electronic comments may be e-mailed to mpscedockets@michigan.gov.  All comments should reference Case No. U-16020.  All information submitted to the Commission in this matter will become public information, available on the Commission's Web site, and subject to disclosure.

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

Case No. U-16020