The bill amends Michigan's public utility regulations, specifically targeting electric utilities. It requires the establishment of a comprehensive assessment process by the commission every four years, starting by August 31, 2025. This assessment will evaluate energy waste reduction, demand response programs, and the effects of environmental regulations. The commission must also publish proposed modeling scenarios for integrated resource plans (IRPs) on its website and seek public input before finalizing them. Additionally, the bill emphasizes environmental justice by mandating the identification of environmental justice communities and conducting assessments related to electrification and greenhouse gas emissions.

Moreover, the bill sets forth requirements for electric utilities to file IRPs that outline their load obligations and strategies for the next 5, 10, and 15 years, including analyses of generation technologies and renewable energy projections. The commission will review these plans through a contested case proceeding, allowing public intervention. It also introduces criteria for evaluating IRPs, focusing on their effectiveness in reducing health impacts and their implications for environmental justice communities. Key provisions include the use of local labor for new capacity resources, competitive bidding for major contracts, and a financial incentive structure for renewable energy agreements. The bill will take effect only if Senate Bill No. 438 is enacted.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 460.6