The bill amends the existing law governing public and private utilities in Michigan, specifically focusing on the regulation of alternative electric suppliers. It mandates that the commission must issue orders establishing rates, terms, and conditions that allow retail customers to take service from alternative electric suppliers. Notably, the bill changes the language from "shall" to "must" regarding the commission's obligations and removes previous limitations on the percentage of an electric utility's average weather-adjusted retail sales that can take service from alternative suppliers. The bill also introduces provisions that allow customers to expand their usage at facilities served by alternative suppliers and ensures that customers are not switched to another supplier without their consent.

Additionally, the bill outlines the licensing procedures for alternative electric suppliers, requiring them to maintain an office in Michigan and meet specific financial and technical capabilities. It emphasizes the importance of customer consent in switching suppliers and clarifies the rights of customers to engage in self-service power generation without incurring additional fees. The bill also preserves the rights of parties to existing contracts and agreements, ensuring that the changes do not negatively impact their legal and financial interests. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance customer choice and competition in the electric supply market while ensuring regulatory oversight.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 460.10