LANSING – The state’s energy optimization program well exceeded its targets for both electricity and natural gas, the Public Service Commission announced Wednesday.
The programs saved 1.3 megawatt hours and 4.41 billion cubic feet of gas in 2013, the annual report said. That represents 32 percent more than the electric target and 21 percent more than the gas target.
Utilities spent $253 million on the programs, but they are expected to generate savings to $938 million, the report said.
“Once again, Michigan’s energy optimization programs have proven their worth to utility customers large and small,” PSC Chair John Quackenbush said in a statement. “For every dollar spent on EO programs in 2013, customers will see benefits of approximately $3.75 by eliminating energy waste.”
Some of the savings were in direct energy costs and some are anticipated from utilities not having to build additional facilities.
The programs help energy customers pay for various efficiency projects in their home or business by offering rebates for those projects.
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