Michigan House Republicans Make Review of Electric Choice Cap a Top Priority

House Republicans in Michigan have included a "review" of the current 10% electric choice cap as a legislative priority.

"It's time to review Michigan's 10% cap on the total capacity for electric customers that can shop and choose alternative electric suppliers," House Republicans said in their 2013-14 Action Plan under a series of actions meant to find ways to reduce long-term energy costs for ratepayers.

"As of February 2012, the queues of customers seeking choice in service territories of the state's two largest utilities exceeded 6,000. Having a discussion would provide a clearer picture regarding Michigan's regulatory structure and market and could help lower rates for the hard-working taxpayers of Michigan," House Republicans said.

Republicans hold a 59-51 majority in the House.

Energy Choice Now praised the action. "On behalf of over 1,200 ECN members and 10,500 customers waiting in a perpetual line just for the opportunity choose their electricity provider, we are grateful to House Republicans for showing leadership in addressing this critical issue," said Wayne Kuipers, ECN executive director. "Michigan's lawmakers have done a good job at addressing many economic issues to make Michigan the nation's 'comeback state" – but fixing Michigan's flawed energy policy of eliminating electric competition is the next big thing."