MPSC Accepts Staff Report on Advanced Metering Infrastructure, to Open Docket on Data Collection, Privacy and Cyber Security Issues

Contact:  Judy Palnau, 517-241-3323
Agency:  Michigan Public Service Commission

September 11, 2012 - The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today accepted the MPSC staff's June 29 report on advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) and directed all investor-owned utilities to make available an opt-out option, based on cost-of-service principles, for their customers, if or when the provider elects to implement AMI.

Noting that issues concerning customer data collection, privacy and cyber security are complex, the Commission also said it will open a separate docket to deal with these issues. The MPSC will solicit company-specific information on cyber security planning, standards and policies for the utilities currently implementing AMI or planning to implement these systems. In the same docket, the MPSC will request utility input on customer data collection and privacy standards, required rulemaking or rule amendments and interim measures to be undertaken while the rulemaking process proceeds.

Today's order notes that Detroit Edison has already filed its opt-out proposal, with the proceeding under way. Consumers Energy Company, the only other regulated utility currently installing AMI, was directed to include its opt-out tariff proposal within 60 days or in the company's next general rate case filing, whichever occurs first.

The MPSC is an agency within the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

Case No. U-17000

 

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