Dive Summary:
- Representatives of Consumers Energy and DTE Energy defended Michigan electricity rates in a Detroit Free Press story about new report commissioned by Energy Choice Now, which claims that a 2008 law has caused states rates to be higher than they should be and harmed the economy.
- The legislation in question ended allowed for only 10% the electric market in Michigan to be sold competitively, and the report argues that residential customers did not get access to that 10%, leading to higher costs.
- Utilities argue that the increased rates have made investment in long-term clean energy projects possible, such as emission control equipment installations at power plants.
From the article:
A report to be released today says a 2008 state law that was supposed to result in lower electricity rates has instead led to double-digit increases for Michigan consumers.
The report, commissioned by the Energy Choice Now coalition that includes the Michigan Retailers Association, the Michigan Agri-Business Association and companies that want to compete with DTE Energy and Consumers Energy, says high electric rates are harming the Michigan economy. ...
