MI HR0457

Encourages electric utilities to expeditiously explore construction of a natural gas-fired peaking power plant in the Upper Peninsula to reduce electricity transmission costs and increase grid reliability.

Requests the Michigan Agency for Energy and Michigan Public Service Commission provide technical assistance for exploration and construction of the proposed peaking power plant.

Asks the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) to prioritize and expedite approval of the peaking power plant construction request.

Identifies that Upper Peninsula residents currently pay significantly higher energy costs than the rest of the state, with Cloverland Electric Cooperative exploring the plant construction.

Directs copies of the resolution be sent to the Michigan Agency for Energy Executive Director, Michigan Public Service Commission commissioners, and MISO's Chief Executive Officer.