Dr. Benishek Pushes for Long-Term Energy Solution in Michigan's UP

Press Release

Dr. Dan Benishek (MI-01) issued the following statement today following the release of a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) urging the commission to work with their partners in the State of Michigan and consider alternate generation and/or transmission plans prior to making decisions that would result in major rate increases for the citizens of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. In addition to Dr. Benishek, the letter was signed by Governor Rick Snyder, Attorney General Bill Schuette, and House Energy and Commerce Chairman Fred Upton (MI-06).

"The families, schools, and businesses in the UP simply cannot afford the proposed rate increases. We are looking at individuals paying an extra $30 per month and small businesses paying up to an extra $500 a month, possibly as soon as Dec. 1. This is not acceptable or sustainable, and will cost jobs is the UP," said Dr. Benishek, who represents Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

"Working with Gov. Snyder, Attorney General Schuette, and Chairman Upton, as well as other stakeholders on this pending energy crisis, we are trying to help find a long-term solution. We have a commitment for a new natural gas powered plant in the UP in the very near future, but this won't work if FERC insists on raising rates in the interim. The bureaucrats in Washington need to listen to the residents of the UP, as they know what will work best to keep the lights on here."

In coordination with the UP Energy Summit held today at Marquette, Dr. Benishek sent a letter to FERC with Gov. Snyder, Attorney General Schuette, and Rep. Upton. The letter requests that FERC work with the State of Michigan as a partner, and consider alternatives to implementing decisions that could result in rate increases for UP residents. The letter includes exploration of new generation in the form of a commitment for a natural gas power plant in the UP as a possible alternative.

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