The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) is seeking input on developing pilot programs related to plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) deployment and the infrastructure needed to meet growing user demand. The Commission is committed to developing electrification programs within the PEV industry by addressing regulatory issues within its authority. Seeking input from various stakeholders (Case No. U-18368) will help the Commission with implementing decisions. Pilot programs will be helpful to answer questions around rate design (encouraging charging at off-peak times with lower rates), impact on the electrical grid (location of chargers, utility deployment of charging infrastructure), customer education (direct from utility or working through vehicle dealers), and the role of the utility in infrastructure deployment/cost recovery (cost-benefit analysis, customer benefits, cost recovery from customers). The Commission expects that utilities, automobile manufacturers, environment groups, clean air organizations, transportation consultants and charging equipment companies will contribute to the potential pilot programs. The key topics to be addressed were developed by stakeholders at an August technical conference and individual meetings, which furthered the Commission’s understanding of PEV trends and the market barriers that might discourage the purchase of an alternative-fuel vehicle, such as range anxiety, the concern that chargers won’t be available before a vehicle’s batteries run low. Written or electronic comments about targeted pilot programs and related PEV deployment issues must be submitted by 5 p.m. Nov. 17. Send written comments to Executive Secretary, Michigan Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 30221, Lansing, MI 48909. Electronic comments or letters may be e-mailed to mpscedockets@michigan.gov. All comments should reference Case No. U-18368.
