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Michigan’s Distributed Generation Program grew by 28% in 2017
This week, the Michigan Public Service Commission released its annual report on the distributed generation program and the news is positive. The number of individual installations producing electric power under Michigan’s distributed generation (DG) program grew by nearly 28 percent last year.
The program’s total capacity in 2017 increased by 35 percent from the year before, to approximately 29,571 kilowatts (kW). That represents about 0.03 percent of Michigan’s total retail electricity sales. Solar energy comprises 93 percent of customers’ projects and remains the most popular form of energy generation, a position it has held since 2010. Wind energy was second.
The distributed generation program, formerly known as the net metering program, allows customers to produce their own power on-site, usually through wind or solar, to reduce their energy needs or electric bills. Changes in the state’s energy laws in 2016 called for the MPSC to transition from a net metering program to distributed generation. Under new guidelines adopted by the MPSC in July 2017, utility distributed generation programs will become effective after that utility’s next rate case is approved.
DTE Electric filed the first utility distributed generation tariff in their ongoing general rate case (U-20162). The utility proposes to charge customers with distributed generation systems (e.g., rooftop solar) at the retail rate for electricity they use (called “inflow”) and credit them at the much lower average locational marginal price for any electricity they send back to the grid (called “outflow”). The utility also proposes to add a “System Access Charge” based on the nameplate capacity of the distributed generation system. Along with the Institute of Energy Innovation, Michigan EIBC is currently intervening in the DTE rate case and continue to relay the concerns and opinions of the advanced energy industry to the MPSC.
Renewable Energy Buyers Alliance forms new organization
Earlier this week, large corporations from across the United States convened in Oakland, California for the Renewable Energy Buyers Alliance (REBA) conference. REBA is a national group that works to increase the number of large corporate buyers setting renewable energy goals. More than 60 percent of Fortune 100 companies have set renewable energy purchasing targets and more corporations are making such commitments. Today, the Rocky Mountain Institute released figures indicating that corporate renewable energy procurement will surpass 5 GW by December 2018.
At the conference, it was announced that REBA will now be more than an informal partnership. The organization is transitioning to include both 501(c)6 and 501(c)3 entities and will led by a board comprised of majority corporate buyers. Michigan EIBC will continue to partner closely with REBA and help our member companies take advantage of this new organizational structure.
Also at the conference, General Motors and Consumers Energy were featured for a conversation about the companies’ partnership toward accomplishing General Motors’ renewable energy goals. The panel featured DV Rao, Senior Vice President of Strategy at Consumers and Dane Parker, Vice President of Sustainable Workplaces at General Motors. On a separate panel, Rob Threlkeld, Global Manager for Renewable Energy at General Motors spoke about General Motors continued leadership as a buyer of renewable energy across the globe.
With support from Michigan corporate purchasers and Michigan EIBC members, Michigan EIBC has been involved in issues related to corporate purchasers at the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). On October 5, the MPSC approved voluntary green power pricing programs proposed by Consumers Energy while requiring DTE Energy to make improvements to their program. Michigan EIBC looks forward to working with corporate purchasers, the advanced energy industry, and both utilities to continue to expand and improve these programs. In addition to these regulatory efforts, on October 25, Michigan EIBC will host an event with the Michigan Chamber of Commerce to bring together corporate buyers and project developers from across Michigan to discuss how companies can meet their renewable energy goals. Michigan EIBC members and Michigan Chamber members can register here. On December 5, IEI is hosting Corporate Purchasers 101, a lunch and learn event for Michigan legislators and staff as well as Michigan EIBC member companies.
A new member for the Michigan Energy Innovators Hall of Fame
Next month, at Michigan EIBC’s 6th Annual Michigan Energy Innovators Gala on November 14, 2018 (Get your ticket here!),the Michigan Energy Innovators Hall of Fame will induct a new member. In addition to handing out awards for “Project of the Year,” “Business of the Year,” “Employer of the Year,” “Emerging Business of the Year,” and “Public Official of the Year,” Michigan EIBC will honor an individual who has led the way in the advanced energy industry, leaving a lasting influence on the sector in the state. We are excited to have a well-deserving honoree to induct into the hall of fame this year! Come to the Michigan Energy Innovators Galaon November 14 to see who it is!
Past Hall of Fame honorees:
Stanford Ovshinsky (2013)
Stanford Ovshinsky was a scientist and inventor from Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. He founded Energy Conversion Laboratory in a storefront in Detroit, dedicating the laboratory to the solution of important societal problems using science and technology. In 1964, the company reconstituted as Energy Conversion Devices (ECD). ECD continues (through joint ventures and license partners) to be a leading solar energy and battery production firm.
Rich Vanderveen (2013)
Rich Vander Veen is the Founder and President of Mackinaw Power. He led the development efforts to develop the first privately-financed wind power project in the Great Lakes, which received unanimous approvals by Mackinaw City, Emmet County, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC).
Bruce Goodman (2014)
Bruce practices energy law, environmental law and construction law at Varnum LLP. His energy background includes negotiating electric power sales agreements (both for wholesale sellers of energy and for retail consumers of energy), state electric rate cases, developing municipal energy tariffs, and energy project structuring and permitting. For years, he published a blog focused on alternative energy developments in Michigan.
Stanley “Skip” Pruss (2014)
Stanley “Skip” Pruss co-founded 5 Lakes Energy in 2010, specializing in energy policy and clean energy system development. During Governor Jennifer Granholm’s tenure, Skip was the director of the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth and served as the state’s Chief Energy Officer. He also served as the governor’s Special Advisor for Renewable Energy and the Environment and chaired the Great Lakes Offshore Wind Council.
Amy Butler (2015)
Amy Butler is the current Sustainability Director at Michigan State University and provided 32 years of leadership in state of Michigan government, directing the State Energy Office and Environmental Science and Services Division. Her leadership has delivered sustainable solutions to energy, environmental, and economic challenges utilizing best practices and the creation of innovative programs.
Allan O’Shea (2016)
Allan O’Shea is the President and Director of Sales for CBS Solar. As the first president and founding member of the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), Allan began to raise awareness of alternative methods to sustain families, businesses and the economy. In recent years Allan helped with the formation of the Michigan Energy Fair, a premier event in Michigan that teaches the average homeowner about renewable energy.
New Member
Future Energy Group
Future Energy Group is a full-service energy partner. They are a conduit for bringing innovative, intelligent and data-driven energy solutions to market. Through systems and partnerships, they have the expertise to guide any corporation to a future-forward energy 
Riverside Solar
Riverside Solar is a development company focused on utility-scale solar farm projects. Riverside Solar secures land in locations viable for development of a solar farm and carries out all the development steps necessary for a solar project, including preparation of engineering plans and environmental assessments, attaining land use approvals, and securing interconnection agreements and power purchase contracts with electric utilities. Riverside Solar works with a wide range of industry professionals and companies on the planning, construction, financing and operation of our solar farms.
Renewing Members
ecojiva
With over 40 years of combined experience in the electrical utility industry, ecojiva, LLC is a full-service solar energy management system provider. ecojiva, LLC designs Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy solutions for agriculture, commercial, and industrial enterprises, and is a full-service turn-key enterprise from inception to completion. Our engineers design PV systems that provide access to power independent of the utility grid, and creates surplus power that can be returned to the grid. Founded by utility industry veteran Sridhar K. Ayer, ecojiva, LLC is committed to energy innovation in the solar industry not only as a technology provider but through education and advocacy as well. The company’s expertise also encompasses Transmission & Distribution design services, patent-pending eco-DMT™ energy management system, and ecoSEMS™ complete solar energy solutions.
Michigan Energy Stories
- Michigan Hub, LLC, held a ceremony Wednesday to celebrate the company’s groundbreaking on its conversion of the former coal-burning Endicott Generating Plant in the city of Litchfield into a combined heat and power project that supplies nearby industrial customers.
- An Upper Peninsula resident is running for local office to change zoning regulations amid a contentious wind project proposal.
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized Michigan State University’s renewable energy programs with a 2018 Green Power Leadership Award at the 2018 Renewable Energy Markets Conference in Houston, Texas.
- After months of work on proposed ordinances to regulate wind turbines in Sherwood Township, the Township held a special public hearing featuring a wind turbine zoning researcher.
- A Union Township resident asked the Branch County Board of Commissioners to put together a county wind ordinance concerning industrial wind turbines.
- The Grand Rapids-based West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum named Catalyst Partners, a “building performance firm,” as the Sustainable Business of the Year from among five finalists.
- Trustees of Union Township will wait until after the Nov. 6 election before taking any action to implement zoning in the township.
- Michigan has been ranked the 11th most energy efficient state in America, according to a new report by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy.
- The Presque Isle County Board of Commissioners approved ordinance changes to place limits on proposed wind turbines.
- Michigan EIBC member company Ranger Power is proposing the construction of a $250 million solar farm covering 1,200 acres in two townships in Shiawassee County that border western Genesee County.
- A national fight that could slow the spread of rooftop solar has landed in Michigan. Utility regulators are weighing a proposal that would cost consumers more to produce their own power.
National Energy Stories
- According to the latest figures from the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), corporate buyers in the U.S. have now purchased a total of 4.81 gigawatts of renewable energyso far this year — and are expected to top 5 gigawatts by December.
- Walmart made a deal to purchase 233 MW of wind energy from three new wind farms in Indiana and Illinois working with Michigan EIBC member company EDP Renewables.
- An Iowa solar company received a $200,000 research grant to evaluate the performance of large-scale solar-plus-storage in the state.
- T-Mobile announced that it has joined Puget Sound Energy’s Green Direct program, which gives it access to a combination of local wind and solar power. This mix will be used to power T-Mobile’s headquarters in Bellevue, Washington, with 100 percent renewable energy by the year 2021.
- A new facility in Indiana will convert 945 tons of cow manure into biogas every day.
- A study released this week identifies which states have the highest ratio of electric vehicle charging stations to the general population.
- Minnesota and a growing number of states are offering clean energy financing programs for low- and moderate-income residents.
- Large industrial customers have joined clean energy groups to oppose a Minnesota utility’s plan for a new natural gas plant.
- One million electric vehicles have now been sold in the United States.
- At least 35 programs nationwide have been created to try to provide affordable solar power to low-income residents.
- Duke Energy is planning a large battery investment in North Carolina and South Carolina, and on Monday asked state regulators to approve a solar project as well.
- According to the EIA, wind and solar provided 10 states with 20 percent or more of their electricity.
Michigan Energy Events
Join Advancing Women in Energy for the AWE Annual Meeting on Tuesday October 23, 2018 in Lansing. You can register here.
DTE Energy is seeking public input as it develops its long-term Integrated Resource Plan and is hosting a stakeholder meeting on October 23 from 4pm to 7pm at the Wayne County Community College District Downtown Campus — Atrium (no registration necessary)
On October 25, Michigan EIBC is hosting an event with the Michigan Chamber of Commerce focused on corporate procurement of renewable energy in Lansing. Michigan EIBC members and Michigan Chamber members can register here.
Michigan EIBC will host a members-only election recap on Friday, November 9. Watch your inboxes for registration details.
Michigan EIBC’s Annual Energy Innovator’s Gala is scheduled for Wednesday, November 14, in Lansing. Sponsorship opportunities are available and interested sponsors should contact Nicole Forward at nicole@mieibc.org. For more information on the Gala and to register, please check out the website.
IEI will host a Corporate Purchasers Lunch & Learn at the House Office Building in Lansing on December 5. This event will be open to legislators and legislative staff, as well as Michigan EIBC members. Watch your inboxes for registration details.
National Energy Events
Attend the 2018 ACEEE Rural Energy Conference on October 22 in Atlanta, Georgia. Register here.
MSU IPU invites you to the 60th Annual Regulatory Studies Program’s 46th Eastern NARUC Utility Rate School. The event provides comprehensive hands-on training on the basics of the public utility ratemaking process and is sponsored by the NARUC Committee on Water and featuring group work on a mock water utility rate case. It will take place October 22-26 in Clearwater Beach, Florida.
Join 20,000 energy professionals at the Energy Storage North America Solar+Storage Summit November 6-8 in Pasadena, California. Register here.
You’re invited to Facing Race, a conference taking place in Detroit November 8-10. The conference will include several components related to energy democracy, helping cities and states to implement their new energy programs in a way that is racially equitable. For more information, please click here.
The 6th Annual Michigan Energy Innovators Gala is on November 14 in East Lansing hosted by the Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council.
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA) invite you to Solar Power Midwest in Chicago on November 14-15.
Announcements and Opportunities
The Michigan Energy Office (MEO) has announced a pilot program that will offer matching funds to eligible Michigan businesses to develop innovative energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies.
USDA announced a set of loan guarantees and grants as a part of USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). The deadlines to apply for grants are Oct. 31, 2018, and April 1, 2019. Applications for loan guarantees are accepted year-round. Additional information about the program and how to apply for this funding is available on page 40216 of the Aug. 14, 2018, Federal Register.
As a business-driven organization, the Michigan EIBC exists to serve its members and relies on business support. We thank our members for their important support and participation. Is your business interested in joining Michigan EIBC? Click here for more information or to sign up.
Michigan’s Distributed Generation Program grew by 28% in 2017
This week, the Michigan Public Service Commission released its annual report on the distributed generation program and the news is positive. The number of individual installations producing electric power under Michigan’s distributed generation (DG) program grew by nearly 28 percent last year.
The program’s total capacity in 2017 increased by 35 percent from the year before, to approximately 29,571 kilowatts (kW). That represents about 0.03 percent of Michigan’s total retail electricity sales. Solar energy comprises 93 percent of customers’ projects and remains the most popular form of energy generation, a position it has held since 2010. Wind energy was second.
The distributed generation program, formerly known as the net metering program, allows customers to produce their own power on-site, usually through wind or solar, to reduce their energy needs or electric bills. Changes in the state’s energy laws in 2016 called for the MPSC to transition from a net metering program to distributed generation. Under new guidelines adopted by the MPSC in July 2017, utility distributed generation programs will become effective after that utility’s next rate case is approved.
DTE Electric filed the first utility distributed generation tariff in their ongoing general rate case (U-20162). The utility proposes to charge customers with distributed generation systems (e.g., rooftop solar) at the retail rate for electricity they use (called “inflow”) and credit them at the much lower average locational marginal price for any electricity they send back to the grid (called “outflow”). The utility also proposes to add a “System Access Charge” based on the nameplate capacity of the distributed generation system. Along with the Institute of Energy Innovation, Michigan EIBC is currently intervening in the DTE rate case and continue to relay the concerns and opinions of the advanced energy industry to the MPSC.
Renewable Energy Buyers Alliance forms new organization
Earlier this week, large corporations from across the United States convened in Oakland, California for the Renewable Energy Buyers Alliance (REBA) conference. REBA is a national group that works to increase the number of large corporate buyers setting renewable energy goals. More than 60 percent of Fortune 100 companies have set renewable energy purchasing targets and more corporations are making such commitments. Today, the Rocky Mountain Institute released figures indicating that corporate renewable energy procurement will surpass 5 GW by December 2018.
At the conference, it was announced that REBA will now be more than an informal partnership. The organization is transitioning to include both 501(c)6 and 501(c)3 entities and will led by a board comprised of majority corporate buyers. Michigan EIBC will continue to partner closely with REBA and help our member companies take advantage of this new organizational structure.
Also at the conference, General Motors and Consumers Energy were featured for a conversation about the companies’ partnership toward accomplishing General Motors’ renewable energy goals. The panel featured DV Rao, Senior Vice President of Strategy at Consumers and Dane Parker, Vice President of Sustainable Workplaces at General Motors. On a separate panel, Rob Threlkeld, Global Manager for Renewable Energy at General Motors spoke about General Motors continued leadership as a buyer of renewable energy across the globe.
With support from Michigan corporate purchasers and Michigan EIBC members, Michigan EIBC has been involved in issues related to corporate purchasers at the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). On October 5, the MPSC approved voluntary green power pricing programs proposed by Consumers Energy while requiring DTE Energy to make improvements to their program. Michigan EIBC looks forward to working with corporate purchasers, the advanced energy industry, and both utilities to continue to expand and improve these programs. In addition to these regulatory efforts, on October 25, Michigan EIBC will host an event with the Michigan Chamber of Commerce to bring together corporate buyers and project developers from across Michigan to discuss how companies can meet their renewable energy goals. Michigan EIBC members and Michigan Chamber members can register here. On December 5, IEI is hosting Corporate Purchasers 101, a lunch and learn event for Michigan legislators and staff as well as Michigan EIBC member companies.
A new member for the Michigan Energy Innovators Hall of Fame
Next month, at Michigan EIBC’s 6th Annual Michigan Energy Innovators Gala on November 14, 2018 (Get your ticket here!),the Michigan Energy Innovators Hall of Fame will induct a new member. In addition to handing out awards for “Project of the Year,” “Business of the Year,” “Employer of the Year,” “Emerging Business of the Year,” and “Public Official of the Year,” Michigan EIBC will honor an individual who has led the way in the advanced energy industry, leaving a lasting influence on the sector in the state. We are excited to have a well-deserving honoree to induct into the hall of fame this year! Come to the Michigan Energy Innovators Galaon November 14 to see who it is!
Past Hall of Fame honorees:
Stanford Ovshinsky (2013)
Stanford Ovshinsky was a scientist and inventor from Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. He founded Energy Conversion Laboratory in a storefront in Detroit, dedicating the laboratory to the solution of important societal problems using science and technology. In 1964, the company reconstituted as Energy Conversion Devices (ECD). ECD continues (through joint ventures and license partners) to be a leading solar energy and battery production firm.
Rich Vanderveen (2013)
Rich Vander Veen is the Founder and President of Mackinaw Power. He led the development efforts to develop the first privately-financed wind power project in the Great Lakes, which received unanimous approvals by Mackinaw City, Emmet County, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC).
Bruce Goodman (2014)
Bruce practices energy law, environmental law and construction law at Varnum LLP. His energy background includes negotiating electric power sales agreements (both for wholesale sellers of energy and for retail consumers of energy), state electric rate cases, developing municipal energy tariffs, and energy project structuring and permitting. For years, he published a blog focused on alternative energy developments in Michigan.
Stanley “Skip” Pruss (2014)
Stanley “Skip” Pruss co-founded 5 Lakes Energy in 2010, specializing in energy policy and clean energy system development. During Governor Jennifer Granholm’s tenure, Skip was the director of the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth and served as the state’s Chief Energy Officer. He also served as the governor’s Special Advisor for Renewable Energy and the Environment and chaired the Great Lakes Offshore Wind Council.
Amy Butler (2015)
Amy Butler is the current Sustainability Director at Michigan State University and provided 32 years of leadership in state of Michigan government, directing the State Energy Office and Environmental Science and Services Division. Her leadership has delivered sustainable solutions to energy, environmental, and economic challenges utilizing best practices and the creation of innovative programs.
Allan O’Shea (2016)
Allan O’Shea is the President and Director of Sales for CBS Solar. As the first president and founding member of the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), Allan began to raise awareness of alternative methods to sustain families, businesses and the economy. In recent years Allan helped with the formation of the Michigan Energy Fair, a premier event in Michigan that teaches the average homeowner about renewable energy.
New Member
Future Energy Group
Future Energy Group is a full-service energy partner. They are a conduit for bringing innovative, intelligent and data-driven energy solutions to market. Through systems and partnerships, they have the expertise to guide any corporation to a future-forward energy
Riverside Solar
Riverside Solar is a development company focused on utility-scale solar farm projects. Riverside Solar secures land in locations viable for development of a solar farm and carries out all the development steps necessary for a solar project, including preparation of engineering plans and environmental assessments, attaining land use approvals, and securing interconnection agreements and power purchase contracts with electric utilities. Riverside Solar works with a wide range of industry professionals and companies on the planning, construction, financing and operation of our solar farms.
Renewing Members
ecojiva
With over 40 years of combined experience in the electrical utility industry, ecojiva, LLC is a full-service solar energy management system provider. ecojiva, LLC designs Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy solutions for agriculture, commercial, and industrial enterprises, and is a full-service turn-key enterprise from inception to completion. Our engineers design PV systems that provide access to power independent of the utility grid, and creates surplus power that can be returned to the grid. Founded by utility industry veteran Sridhar K. Ayer, ecojiva, LLC is committed to energy innovation in the solar industry not only as a technology provider but through education and advocacy as well. The company’s expertise also encompasses Transmission & Distribution design services, patent-pending eco-DMT™ energy management system, and ecoSEMS™ complete solar energy solutions.
Michigan Energy Stories
- Michigan Hub, LLC, held a ceremony Wednesday to celebrate the company’s groundbreaking on its conversion of the former coal-burning Endicott Generating Plant in the city of Litchfield into a combined heat and power project that supplies nearby industrial customers.
- An Upper Peninsula resident is running for local office to change zoning regulations amid a contentious wind project proposal.
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized Michigan State University’s renewable energy programs with a 2018 Green Power Leadership Award at the 2018 Renewable Energy Markets Conference in Houston, Texas.
- After months of work on proposed ordinances to regulate wind turbines in Sherwood Township, the Township held a special public hearing featuring a wind turbine zoning researcher.
- A Union Township resident asked the Branch County Board of Commissioners to put together a county wind ordinance concerning industrial wind turbines.
- The Grand Rapids-based West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum named Catalyst Partners, a “building performance firm,” as the Sustainable Business of the Year from among five finalists.
- Trustees of Union Township will wait until after the Nov. 6 election before taking any action to implement zoning in the township.
- Michigan has been ranked the 11th most energy efficient state in America, according to a new report by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy.
- The Presque Isle County Board of Commissioners approved ordinance changes to place limits on proposed wind turbines.
- Michigan EIBC member company Ranger Power is proposing the construction of a $250 million solar farm covering 1,200 acres in two townships in Shiawassee County that border western Genesee County.
- A national fight that could slow the spread of rooftop solar has landed in Michigan. Utility regulators are weighing a proposal that would cost consumers more to produce their own power.
National Energy Stories
- According to the latest figures from the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), corporate buyers in the U.S. have now purchased a total of 4.81 gigawatts of renewable energyso far this year — and are expected to top 5 gigawatts by December.
- Walmart made a deal to purchase 233 MW of wind energy from three new wind farms in Indiana and Illinois working with Michigan EIBC member company EDP Renewables.
- An Iowa solar company received a $200,000 research grant to evaluate the performance of large-scale solar-plus-storage in the state.
- T-Mobile announced that it has joined Puget Sound Energy’s Green Direct program, which gives it access to a combination of local wind and solar power. This mix will be used to power T-Mobile’s headquarters in Bellevue, Washington, with 100 percent renewable energy by the year 2021.
- A new facility in Indiana will convert 945 tons of cow manure into biogas every day.
- A study released this week identifies which states have the highest ratio of electric vehicle charging stations to the general population.
- Minnesota and a growing number of states are offering clean energy financing programs for low- and moderate-income residents.
- Large industrial customers have joined clean energy groups to oppose a Minnesota utility’s plan for a new natural gas plant.
- One million electric vehicles have now been sold in the United States.
- At least 35 programs nationwide have been created to try to provide affordable solar power to low-income residents.
- Duke Energy is planning a large battery investment in North Carolina and South Carolina, and on Monday asked state regulators to approve a solar project as well.
- According to the EIA, wind and solar provided 10 states with 20 percent or more of their electricity.
Michigan Energy Events
Join Advancing Women in Energy for the AWE Annual Meeting on Tuesday October 23, 2018 in Lansing. You can register here.
DTE Energy is seeking public input as it develops its long-term Integrated Resource Plan and is hosting a stakeholder meeting on October 23 from 4pm to 7pm at the Wayne County Community College District Downtown Campus — Atrium (no registration necessary)
On October 25, Michigan EIBC is hosting an event with the Michigan Chamber of Commerce focused on corporate procurement of renewable energy in Lansing. Michigan EIBC members and Michigan Chamber members can register here.
Michigan EIBC will host a members-only election recap on Friday, November 9. Watch your inboxes for registration details.
Michigan EIBC’s Annual Energy Innovator’s Gala is scheduled for Wednesday, November 14, in Lansing. Sponsorship opportunities are available and interested sponsors should contact Nicole Forward at nicole@mieibc.org. For more information on the Gala and to register, please check out the website.
IEI will host a Corporate Purchasers Lunch & Learn at the House Office Building in Lansing on December 5. This event will be open to legislators and legislative staff, as well as Michigan EIBC members. Watch your inboxes for registration details.
National Energy Events
Attend the 2018 ACEEE Rural Energy Conference on October 22 in Atlanta, Georgia. Register here.
MSU IPU invites you to the 60th Annual Regulatory Studies Program’s 46th Eastern NARUC Utility Rate School. The event provides comprehensive hands-on training on the basics of the public utility ratemaking process and is sponsored by the NARUC Committee on Water and featuring group work on a mock water utility rate case. It will take place October 22-26 in Clearwater Beach, Florida.
Join 20,000 energy professionals at the Energy Storage North America Solar+Storage Summit November 6-8 in Pasadena, California. Register here.
You’re invited to Facing Race, a conference taking place in Detroit November 8-10. The conference will include several components related to energy democracy, helping cities and states to implement their new energy programs in a way that is racially equitable. For more information, please click here.
The 6th Annual Michigan Energy Innovators Gala is on November 14 in East Lansing hosted by the Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council.
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA) invite you to Solar Power Midwest in Chicago on November 14-15.
Announcements and Opportunities
The Michigan Energy Office (MEO) has announced a pilot program that will offer matching funds to eligible Michigan businesses to develop innovative energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies.
USDA announced a set of loan guarantees and grants as a part of USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). The deadlines to apply for grants are Oct. 31, 2018, and April 1, 2019. Applications for loan guarantees are accepted year-round. Additional information about the program and how to apply for this funding is available on page 40216 of the Aug. 14, 2018, Federal Register.
As a business-driven organization, the Michigan EIBC exists to serve its members and relies on business support. We thank our members for their important support and participation. Is your business interested in joining Michigan EIBC? Click here for more information or to sign up.
Michigan’s Distributed Generation Program grew by 28% in 2017
This week, the Michigan Public Service Commission released its annual report on the distributed generation program and the news is positive. The number of individual installations producing electric power under Michigan’s distributed generation (DG) program grew by nearly 28 percent last year.
The program’s total capacity in 2017 increased by 35 percent from the year before, to approximately 29,571 kilowatts (kW). That represents about 0.03 percent of Michigan’s total retail electricity sales. Solar energy comprises 93 percent of customers’ projects and remains the most popular form of energy generation, a position it has held since 2010. Wind energy was second.
The distributed generation program, formerly known as the net metering program, allows customers to produce their own power on-site, usually through wind or solar, to reduce their energy needs or electric bills. Changes in the state’s energy laws in 2016 called for the MPSC to transition from a net metering program to distributed generation. Under new guidelines adopted by the MPSC in July 2017, utility distributed generation programs will become effective after that utility’s next rate case is approved.
DTE Electric filed the first utility distributed generation tariff in their ongoing general rate case (U-20162). The utility proposes to charge customers with distributed generation systems (e.g., rooftop solar) at the retail rate for electricity they use (called “inflow”) and credit them at the much lower average locational marginal price for any electricity they send back to the grid (called “outflow”). The utility also proposes to add a “System Access Charge” based on the nameplate capacity of the distributed generation system. Along with the Institute of Energy Innovation, Michigan EIBC is currently intervening in the DTE rate case and continue to relay the concerns and opinions of the advanced energy industry to the MPSC.
Renewable Energy Buyers Alliance forms new organization
Earlier this week, large corporations from across the United States convened in Oakland, California for the Renewable Energy Buyers Alliance (REBA) conference. REBA is a national group that works to increase the number of large corporate buyers setting renewable energy goals. More than 60 percent of Fortune 100 companies have set renewable energy purchasing targets and more corporations are making such commitments. Today, the Rocky Mountain Institute released figures indicating that corporate renewable energy procurement will surpass 5 GW by December 2018.
At the conference, it was announced that REBA will now be more than an informal partnership. The organization is transitioning to include both 501(c)6 and 501(c)3 entities and will led by a board comprised of majority corporate buyers. Michigan EIBC will continue to partner closely with REBA and help our member companies take advantage of this new organizational structure.
Also at the conference, General Motors and Consumers Energy were featured for a conversation about the companies’ partnership toward accomplishing General Motors’ renewable energy goals. The panel featured DV Rao, Senior Vice President of Strategy at Consumers and Dane Parker, Vice President of Sustainable Workplaces at General Motors. On a separate panel, Rob Threlkeld, Global Manager for Renewable Energy at General Motors spoke about General Motors continued leadership as a buyer of renewable energy across the globe.
With support from Michigan corporate purchasers and Michigan EIBC members, Michigan EIBC has been involved in issues related to corporate purchasers at the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). On October 5, the MPSC approved voluntary green power pricing programs proposed by Consumers Energy while requiring DTE Energy to make improvements to their program. Michigan EIBC looks forward to working with corporate purchasers, the advanced energy industry, and both utilities to continue to expand and improve these programs. In addition to these regulatory efforts, on October 25, Michigan EIBC will host an event with the Michigan Chamber of Commerce to bring together corporate buyers and project developers from across Michigan to discuss how companies can meet their renewable energy goals. Michigan EIBC members and Michigan Chamber members can register here. On December 5, IEI is hosting Corporate Purchasers 101, a lunch and learn event for Michigan legislators and staff as well as Michigan EIBC member companies.
A new member for the Michigan Energy Innovators Hall of Fame
Next month, at Michigan EIBC’s 6th Annual Michigan Energy Innovators Gala on November 14, 2018 (Get your ticket here!),the Michigan Energy Innovators Hall of Fame will induct a new member. In addition to handing out awards for “Project of the Year,” “Business of the Year,” “Employer of the Year,” “Emerging Business of the Year,” and “Public Official of the Year,” Michigan EIBC will honor an individual who has led the way in the advanced energy industry, leaving a lasting influence on the sector in the state. We are excited to have a well-deserving honoree to induct into the hall of fame this year! Come to the Michigan Energy Innovators Galaon November 14 to see who it is!
Past Hall of Fame honorees:
Stanford Ovshinsky (2013)
Stanford Ovshinsky was a scientist and inventor from Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. He founded Energy Conversion Laboratory in a storefront in Detroit, dedicating the laboratory to the solution of important societal problems using science and technology. In 1964, the company reconstituted as Energy Conversion Devices (ECD). ECD continues (through joint ventures and license partners) to be a leading solar energy and battery production firm.
Rich Vanderveen (2013)
Rich Vander Veen is the Founder and President of Mackinaw Power. He led the development efforts to develop the first privately-financed wind power project in the Great Lakes, which received unanimous approvals by Mackinaw City, Emmet County, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC).
Bruce Goodman (2014)
Bruce practices energy law, environmental law and construction law at Varnum LLP. His energy background includes negotiating electric power sales agreements (both for wholesale sellers of energy and for retail consumers of energy), state electric rate cases, developing municipal energy tariffs, and energy project structuring and permitting. For years, he published a blog focused on alternative energy developments in Michigan.
Stanley “Skip” Pruss (2014)
Stanley “Skip” Pruss co-founded 5 Lakes Energy in 2010, specializing in energy policy and clean energy system development. During Governor Jennifer Granholm’s tenure, Skip was the director of the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth and served as the state’s Chief Energy Officer. He also served as the governor’s Special Advisor for Renewable Energy and the Environment and chaired the Great Lakes Offshore Wind Council.
Amy Butler (2015)
Amy Butler is the current Sustainability Director at Michigan State University and provided 32 years of leadership in state of Michigan government, directing the State Energy Office and Environmental Science and Services Division. Her leadership has delivered sustainable solutions to energy, environmental, and economic challenges utilizing best practices and the creation of innovative programs.
Allan O’Shea (2016)
Allan O’Shea is the President and Director of Sales for CBS Solar. As the first president and founding member of the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), Allan began to raise awareness of alternative methods to sustain families, businesses and the economy. In recent years Allan helped with the formation of the Michigan Energy Fair, a premier event in Michigan that teaches the average homeowner about renewable energy.
New Member
Future Energy Group
Future Energy Group is a full-service energy partner. They are a conduit for bringing innovative, intelligent and data-driven energy solutions to market. Through systems and partnerships, they have the expertise to guide any corporation to a future-forward energy
Riverside Solar
Riverside Solar is a development company focused on utility-scale solar farm projects. Riverside Solar secures land in locations viable for development of a solar farm and carries out all the development steps necessary for a solar project, including preparation of engineering plans and environmental assessments, attaining land use approvals, and securing interconnection agreements and power purchase contracts with electric utilities. Riverside Solar works with a wide range of industry professionals and companies on the planning, construction, financing and operation of our solar farms.
Renewing Members
ecojiva
With over 40 years of combined experience in the electrical utility industry, ecojiva, LLC is a full-service solar energy management system provider. ecojiva, LLC designs Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy solutions for agriculture, commercial, and industrial enterprises, and is a full-service turn-key enterprise from inception to completion. Our engineers design PV systems that provide access to power independent of the utility grid, and creates surplus power that can be returned to the grid. Founded by utility industry veteran Sridhar K. Ayer, ecojiva, LLC is committed to energy innovation in the solar industry not only as a technology provider but through education and advocacy as well. The company’s expertise also encompasses Transmission & Distribution design services, patent-pending eco-DMT™ energy management system, and ecoSEMS™ complete solar energy solutions.
Michigan Energy Stories
- Michigan Hub, LLC, held a ceremony Wednesday to celebrate the company’s groundbreaking on its conversion of the former coal-burning Endicott Generating Plant in the city of Litchfield into a combined heat and power project that supplies nearby industrial customers.
- An Upper Peninsula resident is running for local office to change zoning regulations amid a contentious wind project proposal.
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized Michigan State University’s renewable energy programs with a 2018 Green Power Leadership Award at the 2018 Renewable Energy Markets Conference in Houston, Texas.
- After months of work on proposed ordinances to regulate wind turbines in Sherwood Township, the Township held a special public hearing featuring a wind turbine zoning researcher.
- A Union Township resident asked the Branch County Board of Commissioners to put together a county wind ordinance concerning industrial wind turbines.
- The Grand Rapids-based West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum named Catalyst Partners, a “building performance firm,” as the Sustainable Business of the Year from among five finalists.
- Trustees of Union Township will wait until after the Nov. 6 election before taking any action to implement zoning in the township.
- Michigan has been ranked the 11th most energy efficient state in America, according to a new report by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy.
- The Presque Isle County Board of Commissioners approved ordinance changes to place limits on proposed wind turbines.
- Michigan EIBC member company Ranger Power is proposing the construction of a $250 million solar farm covering 1,200 acres in two townships in Shiawassee County that border western Genesee County.
- A national fight that could slow the spread of rooftop solar has landed in Michigan. Utility regulators are weighing a proposal that would cost consumers more to produce their own power.
National Energy Stories
- According to the latest figures from the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), corporate buyers in the U.S. have now purchased a total of 4.81 gigawatts of renewable energyso far this year — and are expected to top 5 gigawatts by December.
- Walmart made a deal to purchase 233 MW of wind energy from three new wind farms in Indiana and Illinois working with Michigan EIBC member company EDP Renewables.
- An Iowa solar company received a $200,000 research grant to evaluate the performance of large-scale solar-plus-storage in the state.
- T-Mobile announced that it has joined Puget Sound Energy’s Green Direct program, which gives it access to a combination of local wind and solar power. This mix will be used to power T-Mobile’s headquarters in Bellevue, Washington, with 100 percent renewable energy by the year 2021.
- A new facility in Indiana will convert 945 tons of cow manure into biogas every day.
- A study released this week identifies which states have the highest ratio of electric vehicle charging stations to the general population.
- Minnesota and a growing number of states are offering clean energy financing programs for low- and moderate-income residents.
- Large industrial customers have joined clean energy groups to oppose a Minnesota utility’s plan for a new natural gas plant.
- One million electric vehicles have now been sold in the United States.
- At least 35 programs nationwide have been created to try to provide affordable solar power to low-income residents.
- Duke Energy is planning a large battery investment in North Carolina and South Carolina, and on Monday asked state regulators to approve a solar project as well.
- According to the EIA, wind and solar provided 10 states with 20 percent or more of their electricity.
Michigan Energy Events
Join Advancing Women in Energy for the AWE Annual Meeting on Tuesday October 23, 2018 in Lansing. You can register here.
DTE Energy is seeking public input as it develops its long-term Integrated Resource Plan and is hosting a stakeholder meeting on October 23 from 4pm to 7pm at the Wayne County Community College District Downtown Campus — Atrium (no registration necessary)
On October 25, Michigan EIBC is hosting an event with the Michigan Chamber of Commerce focused on corporate procurement of renewable energy in Lansing. Michigan EIBC members and Michigan Chamber members can register here.
Michigan EIBC will host a members-only election recap on Friday, November 9. Watch your inboxes for registration details.
Michigan EIBC’s Annual Energy Innovator’s Gala is scheduled for Wednesday, November 14, in Lansing. Sponsorship opportunities are available and interested sponsors should contact Nicole Forward at nicole@mieibc.org. For more information on the Gala and to register, please check out the website.
IEI will host a Corporate Purchasers Lunch & Learn at the House Office Building in Lansing on December 5. This event will be open to legislators and legislative staff, as well as Michigan EIBC members. Watch your inboxes for registration details.
National Energy Events
Attend the 2018 ACEEE Rural Energy Conference on October 22 in Atlanta, Georgia. Register here.
MSU IPU invites you to the 60th Annual Regulatory Studies Program’s 46th Eastern NARUC Utility Rate School. The event provides comprehensive hands-on training on the basics of the public utility ratemaking process and is sponsored by the NARUC Committee on Water and featuring group work on a mock water utility rate case. It will take place October 22-26 in Clearwater Beach, Florida.
Join 20,000 energy professionals at the Energy Storage North America Solar+Storage Summit November 6-8 in Pasadena, California. Register here.
You’re invited to Facing Race, a conference taking place in Detroit November 8-10. The conference will include several components related to energy democracy, helping cities and states to implement their new energy programs in a way that is racially equitable. For more information, please click here.
The 6th Annual Michigan Energy Innovators Gala is on November 14 in East Lansing hosted by the Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council.
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA) invite you to Solar Power Midwest in Chicago on November 14-15.
Announcements and Opportunities
The Michigan Energy Office (MEO) has announced a pilot program that will offer matching funds to eligible Michigan businesses to develop innovative energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies.
USDA announced a set of loan guarantees and grants as a part of USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). The deadlines to apply for grants are Oct. 31, 2018, and April 1, 2019. Applications for loan guarantees are accepted year-round. Additional information about the program and how to apply for this funding is available on page 40216 of the Aug. 14, 2018, Federal Register.
As a business-driven organization, the Michigan EIBC exists to serve its members and relies on business support. We thank our members for their important support and participation. Is your business interested in joining Michigan EIBC? Click here for more information or to sign up.