New podcast episode takes a closer look at MPSC’s new goal to limit energy burdens to 6% of household income

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The latest episode of the Michigan Public Service Commission's Behind the Meter podcast dives into the Commission's work on affordability centered around a new goal of reducing the energy burden on income-constrained Michiganders to no more than 6% of household income.

The MPSC announced earlier this month that it set the 6% goal as the North Star of its efforts to expand and better coordinate energy assistance and make it easier to access for low-income households.

The aim is to shift from a crisis-driven system of energy assistance to one that ensures home energy security for families most in need of help. This change reduces the need to choose between paying utility bills and buying food, medicine or other necessities.

Research shows about 25% of Michigan households pay more than 6% of household income on energy bills, and the problem is most acute among low-income households.

The 6% goal is important because many national organizations say that an energy burden higher than that means customers are more likely to struggle to pay bills and fall behind. Recent pilot programs undertaken by DTE Energy and Consumers Energy reinforced these conclusions, with the pilots finding that reducing energy burdens closer to 6% led to more on-time payments for participating households.

The MPSC is committed to continuing to scrutinize utility costs, continuing best in the nation energy efficiency programs to save customers money, and driving down the number of Michigan households with unsustainable energy burdens.

MPSC Chief Operating Officer Mike Byrne hosts the podcast, leading the discussion with Chair Dan Scripps and Commissioners Katherine Peretick and Shaquila Myers.

About the MPSC'S Behind the Meter podcast

The MPSC's Behind the Meter podcast explores important energy and telecommunications issues, from utility rate cases and Michigan's energy transition to efforts to expand broadband and boost electric reliability. Episodes feature guests including MPSC Commissioners, MPSC Staff, and outside experts in various fields in energy and telecommunications. Behind the Meter episodes are available on the MPSC's website, its YouTube channel, and major podcast platforms.

The MPSC serves as an expert, impartial regulator committed to consumer protection, fairness and transparency. For information about the MPSC, visit www.michigan.gov/mpsc, sign up for its monthly newsletter or other listservs. Follow the MPSC on Facebook, X/Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram.

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