MI HB4683

Lowers the cost threshold for electric utilities to seek a certificate of necessity from $500 million to $100 million for construction, investment, or purchase of generation facilities or power purchase agreements.

Requires electric utilities to obtain certificates of necessity only for projects that have been approved in an integrated resource plan, removing exemptions for environmental upgrades and renewable energy systems.

Mandates the Public Service Commission adopt regional integrated resource plans for 10 regions of Michigan within 240 days, incorporating 20-year load forecasts, optimal generation technology percentages, and consideration of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and demand response programs.

Prohibits electric utilities from constructing generation facilities, making significant investments, or entering power purchase agreements unless the project complies with the adopted regional integrated resource plan and receives a certificate of necessity.

Establishes that actual costs exceeding approved costs by more than 110% are presumed to result from lack of prudence, with the utility bearing the burden of proving additional costs were reasonable and prudent.