March 21, 2008

The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today released two Requests for Proposal (RFP). One RFP is for low-income energy assistance grants, and the other is for Michigan energy efficient technology grants from the Low-Income and Energy Efficiency Fund (LIEEF).

Up to $7 million is available for low-income energy assistance grants, and up to $6.5 million is available for Michigan energy efficient technology grants. The energy efficient technology grants will have three distinct focuses: up to $5 million for a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) pilot program related to integration of PHEVs into the electricity grid; up to $1 million for the promotion and increased use of ENERGY STAR-qualified compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs); and up to $500,000 for green community programs that encourage community-based renewable energy and energy efficiency programs.

The deadline for proposals is 5 p.m. on Friday, April 4.

"By this action, the MPSC is making available much-needed assistance to help low-income customers with their bills, and is also promoting the development and application of energy efficient technologies," said MPSC Chairman Orjiakor Isiogu.

The purpose of the LIEEF is to provide shut-off and other protection for low-income customers and to promote energy efficiency by all customer classes.

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

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

Case No. U-13129