The conversation focuses on what the MPSC does — and does not — have authority over, including the review of special contracts, electric rates, and customer protections designed to ensure that existing customers are not subsidizing new large loads. The Commissioners also discuss how reliability is evaluated when serving large customers and the safeguards in place to protect the broader electric system.

This episode offers a clear, plain-language explanation for Michiganders who want to better understand the role of data centers in Michigan’s energy landscape and how the Commission works to balance economic development, reliability, and affordability.

Resources:

Case No. U-21990, DTE Electric’s Application for Approval of Special Contracts: https://go.mi.gov/hp2891743

MPSC News Release: Commission Approves DTE Electric Contracts for Data Center: https://go.mi.gov/jm8mj1744

Michigan Public: What You Need to Know About Data Centers in Michigan: https://www.michiganpublic.org/environment-climate-change/2025-11-21/data-centers-in-michigan-what-you-need-to-know

Customer Protections in the DTE Data Center Contract Decision: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/-/media/Project/Websites/mpsc/activity/behind-the-meter/MPSC_Data_Center_Infographic.pdf

Together, they count down the Top 5 topics of the year, including expanded public outreach and national leadership, strengthened customer protections, progress in managing Michigan’s energy transition, ongoing efforts to improve reliability, and the addition of Commissioner Shaquille Myers to the Commission.

The conversation highlights how the MPSC has worked to protect consumers, modernize the grid, expand clean energy, and engage communities across the state — while positioning Michigan as a leader in energy policy nationwide.

Whether you’ve followed the Commission closely or are just catching up, this episode offers a thoughtful reflection on the year behind us and a look ahead at what’s next for Michigan’s energy future. 

Resources:

MPSC Website: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc

ACEEE (American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy): https://www.aceee.org/

Reliability Metrics: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/consumer/electricity/distribution-system-reliability-metrics

Together, they break down how MEAP works, who qualifies, and what support is available — from crisis assistance and shutoff protections to energy efficiency education that helps families manage their bills long-term. The episode also walks listeners through the application process and highlights the vital role MEAP grantees play in communities across the state.

Whether you’re struggling with energy costs, know someone who is, or simply want to understand how Michigan supports vulnerable households, this episode offers practical information and resources every Michigander should know.

Resources:

Michigan Energy Assistance Program: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/consumer/energy-assistance

Superior Watershed Partnership and Land Conservancy: https://superiorwatersheds.org/

Michigan 211: https://mi211.org/

Michigan Home Energy Rebates Program (MiHER): https://www.michigan.gov/egle/about/organization/materials-management/energy/rfps-loans/home-energy-rebate-programs

MPSC Get Help Page: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/consumer/get-help

Together, they discuss how EVs fit into Michigan’s broader clean energy goals, what’s being done to expand charging infrastructure, and how utilities are preparing the grid to support this growing technology. The conversation also tackles common questions about EV performance, affordability, and reliability—especially in Michigan’s challenging winter climate.

Whether you already drive electric or are just curious about what the transition means for you, this episode offers practical insights into the policies, planning, and innovation driving Michigan’s EV future.

Resources:

EGLE Charge Up Michigan Program: https://www.michigan.gov/egle/about/organization/materials-management/energy/rfps-loans/charge-up-michigan-program 

Plan for EV Infrastructure Deployment: https://www.michigan.gov/egle/-/media/Project/Websites/egle/Documents/Programs/MMD/Energy/NEVI/MI-Plan-for-EV-Infrastructure-Deployment.pdf

Traveling Michigan in an Electric Vehicle: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/24093befb5b64716bac9628b6f9d8977

MSU charging stations study: https://engineering.msu.edu/news-events/news/2025/08/15/msu-research-contributes-to-medc-report-of-michigans-ev-charging-stations

Together, they break down the progress being made to expand high-speed internet access, the challenges of closing the digital divide, and how programs like Lifeline help make phone and internet services more affordable for those who need them most. The conversation also clears up common questions about what the MPSC does and does not regulate in telecommunications and looks ahead at what residents can expect as Michigan builds a more connected future.

Whether you’re in a rural community waiting for better broadband service or simply curious about how telecommunications policy affects your daily life, this episode offers practical insights for every Michigander.

Resources:

Lifeline: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/consumer/telecommunications/lifeline

Telecommunications: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/consumer/telecommunications

Broadband Equite, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program: https://www.michigan.gov/leo/bureaus-agencies/mihi/funding-opportunities/bead

Michigan High-Speed Internet Office: https://www.michigan.gov/leo/bureaus-agencies/mihi

Universal Service Administrative Co. (USAC): https://www.usac.org/

Joining the conversation are Chair Dan Scripps and Commissioner Katherine Peretick, who welcome Commissioner Myers and discuss how the Commission is tackling Michigan’s biggest energy challenges—from grid reliability and customer affordability to the state’s clean energy transition and community engagement.

Whether you’re new to the MPSC or a longtime follower of Michigan’s energy policy, this episode offers an insider’s look at the Commission’s leadership and what’s ahead.

Resources:

Commissioner Myers Bio: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/about/commissioners/shaquila-myers

We’re joined by Monica Martinez, a nationally recognized expert in utility scams and consumer protection, who shares the latest trends, red flags to watch for, and what you can do to stay safe.Also returning to the show is Dan Scripps, Chair of the Michigan Public Service Commission, who offers insights into the Commission’s role in protecting customers and working with utilities to raise awareness and prevent fraud.

If you’ve ever wondered how to tell a real utility notice from a scam—or what to do if you’re targeted—this episode is packed with practical tips and resources to help you stay informed and protected.

Propane Resources:

Utilities United Against Scams: https://www.utilitiesunited.org/

Federal Trade Commission: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/scammers-pretend-be-your-utility-company

MPSC Utility Scam Detector: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/-/media/Project/Websites/mpsc/spotlight/Utility_Scam_Alert_Detector.pdf?rev=c9fbbc31206f425f8c77d460f29f4142

MPSC How to Protect Yourself Against Utility Scams: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/-/media/Project/Websites/mpsc/consumer/info/tips/Protect_yourself_against_utility_scams.pdf?rev=fb7b4e1be1494abd941cce4f7a19316f

MI Attorney General: