The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today issued an order approving $4 million in Michigan energy efficiency grants for all customer classes to two 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 position Michigan as a leader in research, development, and application of advanced energy storage technologies."

The Commission on April 1 issued a request for proposals for Michigan energy efficiency grants for all customer classes.  Based on its review, the MPSC awarded the following grants:

• A123Systems, Inc. - $2 million to demonstrate a smart grid stabilization system combined with renewable power sources that will enable their Michigan Center of Energy Excellence plant to produce the batteries that may enhance smart grid development.
  
  
• Ford Motor Company - $2 million to develop a demonstration site at the Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, a large scale Smart Renewable Power Storage system, to convert variable renewable power into firm dispatchable power, providing peak demand management. 

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