The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today released a request for Proposals (RFP) for low-income energy assistance grants.  These grants are part of the Low-Income and Energy Efficiency Fund (LIEEF) initially established as part of the Customer Choice and Electric Reliability Act of 2000 (Public Act 141) and continued by the Commission in a subsequent order.  The purpose of the Fund is to provide shut-off and other protection for low-income customers and to promote energy efficiency by all customer classes.

“The MPSC is acting now to provide additional funding assistance during the current heating season,” said MPSC Chair J. Peter Lark, noting colder temperatures, a substantial rise in all types of energy costs and the slower-than-expected recovery of Michigan’s economy.  “Expediting these grants ensures that the funds will get to the people who need help the most during the heart of this heating season.”

Up to $15 million is available for low-income energy assistance grants.  Public and non-profit organizations are eligible to submit proposals, which may be made for a portion of the available funds or for the entire amount.  One or more grants may be awarded.  The deadline for these proposals is 5 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 14, 2005.

The RFPs and complete instructions on how to submit proposals are located on the MPSC’s Web site in the Spotlight category:  michigan.gov/mpsc.

On October 14, the MPSC announced $20 million in grants from the LIEEF to assist low-income utility customers with their bills.  On Oct. 22, the MPSC approved $8 million in grants from this Fund to improve energy efficiency in low-income utility customers’ homes.

The MPSC is an agency within the Department of Labor & Economic Growth.