MI HB5969

Requires electric utilities to submit applications to the Public Service Commission for certificates of necessity before constructing generation facilities, making significant investments, or entering long-term power purchase agreements costing $500 million or more.

Establishes new regulatory criteria for utility decisions including keeping energy costs affordable, reducing ratepayer risk, establishing fair cost allocation rates, and requiring competitive bidding for construction and procurement projects.

Limits retail customer access to alternative electric suppliers to no more than 10% of a utility's average weather-adjusted retail sales, with existing customers given priority allocations and specific exemptions for Upper Peninsula iron ore mining facilities.

Authorizes the Public Service Commission to establish microgrid rules within 270 days, allowing municipally owned utilities, electric utilities, and private entities to establish microgrids to support critical facilities and operate during emergencies.

Requires the Commission to issue a report by December 31, 2015 analyzing electric distribution system reliability and identifying best practices for improving resilience during natural disasters and other threats.