Behind the Meter: An MPSC Podcast

In this episode of the Michigan Public Service Commission’s Behind the Meter podcast, we explore the MPSC’s new energy affordability goal: reducing the energy burden for income‑constrained Michiganders to no more than 6% of household income. Earlier this month, the MPSC established the 6% benchmark as the guiding standard for improving and coordinating energy assistance programs across Michigan. T...

This episode explores how Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) shapes Michigan’s long‑term energy decisions. We break down what an IRP is, why it matters, and how it guides utilities in delivering safe, reliable, and affordable power. Listeners will gain insight into the data, technologies, and policy considerations that inform Michigan’s energy future.

In this episode of the MPSC’s Behind the Meter podcast, we follow a day in the life of Customer Assistance Division staff who help Michigan energy and telecom customers resolve disputes and navigate assistance options. Listeners get an inside look at how the call center supports customers, identifies issues with providers, and spots trends that signal emerging problems — and learn when it’s time t...

Discover how the Michigan Public Service Commission is strengthening public input and increasing flexibility in the routing of major electric transmission projects in the latest episode of Behind the Meter.   In this episode, Commissioners break down what transmission lines are, the MPSC’s authority in the siting process, and why Michigan is experiencing an increase in transmission cases. Tune in...

Dive into the latest Behind the Meter podcast as the MPSC breaks down real progress on electric reliability at Michigan’s two largest utilities — and how the Commission is working to keep energy costs in check. Host Mike Byrne is joined by Chair Dan Scripps and Commissioners Katherine Peretick and Shaquila Myers to discuss stronger grid performance, smarter investments, and the results of years of...

As data centers and other large energy users look to locate and expand in Michigan, questions often arise about electric rates, reliability, and who pays for the infrastructure needed to serve these facilities. In this episode of Behind the Meter: an MPSC Podcast , host Mike Byrne is joined by Chair Dan Scripps , Commissioner Katherine Peretick , and Commissioner Shaquille Myers to break down how...

In this special year-in-review episode of Behind the Meter: an MPSC Podcast , host Mike Byrne is joined by all three Michigan Public Service Commissioners — Chair Dan Scripps , Commissioner Katherine Peretick , and Commissioner Shaquille Myers — to look back on the moments and milestones that defined the past year.   Together, they count down the Top 5 topics of the year , including expanded publi...

: In this episode of Behind the Meter: an MPSC Podcast , host Mike Byrne is joined by MPSC Chair Dan Scripps and Kasey Grieco , Manager of Energy Assistance for the Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) at Superior Watershed Partnership, to explore how MEAP helps Michigan households stay safe and connected during times of financial hardship. Together, they break down how MEAP works, who qualif...

Electric vehicles are transforming how Michiganders think about transportation, energy, and the future of mobility. In this episode of Behind the Meter: an MPSC Podcast , host Mike Byrne is joined by Commissioner Katherine Peretick of the Michigan Public Service Commission and Alessandra Carreon , former MPSC Commissioner and now Chief Climate Officer at the Michigan Department of Environment, Gre...

Reliable, affordable communications are essential for every Michigan household and business. In this episode of Behind the Meter: an MPSC Podcast, host Mike Byrne and Commissioner Shaquila Myers are joined by Ryan McAnany, Director of the Telecommunications Division at the Michigan Public Service Commission, and Eric Frederick, Michigan’s Chief Connectivity Officer with the High-Speed Internet Off...

In this special episode of Behind the Meter: an MPSC Podcast, host Mike Byrne sits down with the Commission’s newest member, Commissioner Shaquila Myers, to explore her path to public service, the experiences that shaped her approach to energy regulation, and her priorities for ensuring safe, reliable, and affordable service for all Michiganders. Joining the conversation are Chair Dan Scripps and...

In this episode of Behind the Meter: an MPSC Podcast, we’re shining a light on a growing threat to Michigan energy customers—utility scams. From phone calls demanding immediate payment to imposters showing up at your door, scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to trick consumers out of their money and personal information. We’re joined by Monica Martinez, a nationally recognized ex...

In this episode of Behind the Meter: an MPSC Podcast, we’re taking a closer look at propane—an essential energy source for thousands of Michigan homes, farms, and businesses. With winter always on the horizon in a state like ours, ensuring a steady, affordable propane supply is critical. We’re joined by Andrew Vanderboegh, Chairman of the Michigan Propane Commission, who shares insights on how pro...

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. Tog...

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&...

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...

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 hi...

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.