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Residents urge more transparency, criticize ex parte approvals and data centers at MPSC meeting
Summary
Multiple public commenters at the March 27 MPSC meeting criticized the commission’s ex parte rulings on DTE special contracts, raised concerns about data centers and grid impacts, and urged elected officials and regulators to resist corporate influence.
During the public-comment period at the March 27 Michigan Public Service Commission meeting, several residents and virtual commenters sharply criticized the Commission’s handling of DTE special-contract applications and raised broader concerns about data centers, secrecy and rate impacts.
James Deviser, an in-person commenter from Kalamazoo, asked whether Consumer Energy could reduce consumer costs by selling vacant utility land. Kelly Coleman, a Celine Township resident, criticized what she described as the commission permitting secrecy in ex parte rulings and urged elected officials not to take campaign money from corporations; she also referenced Attorney General efforts that she said favor open regulation. "Your position would not even exist if the utility companies were open, honest, and fair with Michigan residents," Coleman said.
Multiple virtual commenters — including Matt Apple, Sarah Brabs and Peter North — expressed anger over approvals tied to DTE and potential data-center projects, arguing the projects will strain the grid and harm communities. Matt Apple described a neighborhood experience with Consumers Energy infrastructure work and asked the commission to hold the utility accountable for contractor practices. Brooke, an all-electric homeowner, said geothermal heating households face disproportionately higher bills and urged rate-design changes that reflect their usage patterns.
Several commenters demanded more transparency and access to information about special contracts and ex parte processes. Nicole Biber called the ex parte decision "very ill advised" and said secrecy undermines public trust. Other callers warned of environmental and land-use consequences and said they will continue opposing projects they view as risky.
The Commission did not respond to these public accusations with substantive rebuttals during the comment period; Chair Scripps thanked speakers for their input and closed the public-comment session before moving to adjourn.
