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Energy Affordability in Michigan: What You Need to Know
Getting Help with Your Utility Bill

Payment Help and Shutoff Protections

Do you wish you could turn up the heat without worry? Last year, hundreds of thousands of Michiganders received help with their telephone, broadband, or home energy bills or received shut off protection for their utility service. If you need assistance, you are not alone. Call 211 or go to the MPSC’s assistance webpage to learn about available help, shut off protections, and how to apply. 

Weatherization Resources

Even small changes can make a difference. Many customers find that understanding their energy use and making a few adjustments helps them feel more in control of their bills. Your utility may offer energy-saving programs, rebates, and tips that can help you use less energy at home. The MPSC’s Energy Optimization page has resources to help you find practical, low-cost ways to lower your usage. 

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) also administers a Weatherization Assistance Program, funded by the Federal Department of Energy (DOE) and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The program provides energy conservation and related health and safety services for eligible low-income households at no cost to the residents. Read more about how to access this program at the MDHHS’s webpage

How can I track or better understand my own energy usage? 

Most utilities offer tools that make it easier to see when and how you use energy. These tools can help you spot patterns, understand why your bill changes from month to month, and find ways to save.

Here are some simple ways to track your usage:

  • Online account or mobile app: Most customers can view daily or hourly energy use through their utility’s online portal or app. These tools often include charts that help you see how weather, appliances, and routines affect your usage.
  • Bill comparison tools: Many utilities provide “year over year” or “month to month” comparisons on your bill so you can quickly see whether your usage has gone up or down.
  • Energy-saving tips and programs: Utilities also offer rebates, home energy assessments, and other resources to help you reduce usage and lower your bill.

If you’re not sure what tools your utility offers, you can check their website, mobile app, or call customer service for help getting started.

Where can I find reports about energy costs and utility performance? 

The MPSC website provides a wide range of reports and data that help customers understand how utilities are performing and how energy costs are changing. These include Utility Compliance Reports, MPSC reports to the Legislature and Governor, and Quarterly Utility Data. These resources offer information on utility performance, energy costs, reliability metrics, and other key topics.