The Michigan Renewables Energy Program (MREP) was established by the legislature, and implemented by the Public Service Commission, to promote the use of renewable energy in the state. A diverse group of individuals and organizations with knowledge and experience in energy production, technology, education, and policy development have been assembled to identify and address barriers to the advancement of renewables and recommend initiatives to increase renewable use in Michigan.
Section 10r(6) of Public Act 141
directs the Public Service Commission to establish a Michigan
Renewables Energy Program "to inform customers of the availability and value of using
renewable energy generation and the potential for reduced pollution." It will "promote the use of
existing renewable energy sources and encourage the development of new facilities." The
Michigan Legislature has defined renewable energy source as "energy generated by solar, wind,
geothermal, biomass, including waste-to-energy and landfill gas, or hydroelectric."
On May 16, 2002, the Commission issued an order in Case No. U-12915, establishing a
collaborative to assume policy analysis and recommendation functions. The collaborative will
include representatives of organizations that have an interest in renewable energy development in
Michigan and address matters such as education, recommendations for incentives that promote
renewable energy development and use, net metering, green tariffs, and interconnection issues.
Annually, Commission Staff is required to prepare and submit to the Commission a report on the
amount of power generated from renewable sources within Michigan, the percentage of power
obtained from renewable sources purchased by Michigan customers, the number of customers
producing power with their own renewable energy installations, the number and aggregate
capacity of renewable energy generators receiving third-party certification, the percentage and
absolute change indicators of renewable penetration, and other factors that will permit the
Commission to monitor the progress on the statutory mandate to educate consumers and promote
the use of renewable energy. The report will also include a summary of legislative action and
recommendations.
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The Michigan Renewables Energy Program (MREP) was established by the legislature, and implemented by the Public Service Commission, to promote the use of renewable energy in the state. A diverse group of individuals and organizations with knowledge and experience in energy production, technology, education, and policy development have been assembled to identify and address barriers to the advancement of renewables and recommend initiatives to increase renewable use in Michigan.
