Michigan electricity provider makes case for further competition

While electricity deregulation continues to increase competition in several markets around the country, some states steadfastly refuse to open themselves to competition. One of those states is actually Michigan, where electricity deregulation was implemented more than a decade ago.

The state has since capped competition at 10 percent of all electricity, and retail electricity provider Glacial Energy notes some legislators like State Senator Mike Nofs have fought hard against any changes that would open up that arrangement.

While legislators continue to argue that the state has been hurt by allowing electricity providers to compete, Glacial Energy points out that Michigan actually saw electricity rates fall below the national average when the state allowed competition, then watched those numbers climb back above the average with the new system.

“While Sen. Nofs is saying he opposes having Michigan open to all companies who wish to grow and provide service here, DTE is busy providing electric service to Ohio at rates lower than it offers their Michigan customers right across the border,” the electricity supplier noted in a statement. “It begs the question; how can DTE argue against competition in Michigan while selling electricity in competitive markets like Ohio?”