Behind the Meter: An MPSC Podcast

Severe Weather, Power Outages, and Power Restoration

In this episode of Behind the Meter, we explore how the state prepares for, responds to, and recovers from widespread power outages caused by storms, wind, and ice.
Host Mike Byrne is joined by two experts from the Michigan Public Service Commission: Julie Baldwin, Manager of the Energy Operations Division, and Julie Ginevan, Energy Emergency Planning Specialist in the Energy Security Section. Together, they break down how utilities plan for emergencies, the protocols followed during major outage events, and the role of the MPSC in ensuring a safe, reliable, and resilient energy system. Listeners will gain insight into the behind-the-scenes coordination that happens before, during, and after a weather disaster, and what’s being done to improve Michigan’s response and recovery in the face of a changing climate.
 
Severe Weather Resources:
Preparing for an Emergency: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/consumer/emergency-preparedness
Preparing for and Responding to Power Outages: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/consumer/be-informed/preparing-for-and-responding-to-power-outages
Customer Outage History: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/consumer/electricity/customer-outage-history
Downed Power Line Safety: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/-/media/Project/Websites/mpsc/consumer/Storm-Power-Outage-Preparedness-Guide/Downed-Power-Line-Ssafety.jpg?rev=2dc5d9c760c1487da3c07691f20bbebf
Power Outage Credits: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/-/media/Project/Websites/mpsc/consumer/Storm-Power-Outage-Preparedness-Guide/Web_Power_Outage_Credit_Are_You_Eligible--3-22-23.pdf?rev=9003b70455e04b049143cbbd112fdd74

Safe Digging

April is safe digging month and in this episode of Behind the Meter, we’re joined by special guest Dave Chislea, the Director of the Gas Safety & Operations Division at the MPSC, to dig into a critical safety topic—how to safely excavate in and around your home without damaging buried utility lines. Whether you're planting a tree, installing a fence, or tackling a backyard renovation, it's essential to know what's underground before you break ground. Dave shares expert insight on the importance of calling 811 before you dig, the potential dangers of striking underground utilities, and the steps every homeowner should take to ensure a safe and legal dig. Tune in to learn how a simple call can prevent costly damage, serious injury, and service outages.
 
Safe digging resources:
Contact Miss Dig by dialing 8-1-1 or online at www.missdig811.org
MPSC’s Safe Digging webpage

The Rate Case Process

In the third episode of Behind the Meter, all three commissioners will join us as we dive into the complex and critical process of rate cases, where utilities propose changes to their rates. Commissioners will answer questions about the process of a rate case, how often a utility can apply for a rate increase and what factors commissioners consider when making a decision. 
 
To make a comment on a rate case, please go to the MPSC's Get Involved page. 
 
Other resources about rate cases:
Ratemaking
The Rate Case: How Utility Rates are Set
Issue Brief: Rate Case

Understanding the Utilities We Regulate

In this episode of Behind the Meter: An MPSC Podcast, we explore the wide range of utilities regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). From electricity and natural gas to telecommunications, the MPSC plays a crucial role in ensuring reliable and affordable services for Michigan Residents. Special guest Paul Proudfoot, the longest serving employee at the MPSC, joins us to share his deep expertise and insights into the commission's regulatory work. 

Meet the Commissioners

In this inaugural episode of Behind the Meter: An MPSC Podcast, we sit down with all three commissioners at the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) to learn about their personal journeys to becoming commissioners. We also dive into the MPSC's responsibilities, exploring how the commission regulates and supports essential services that impact the daily lives of Michigan residents.