LANSING – Energy programs implemented last year will save customers about a third more than projected, according to a report issued Tuesday by the Public Service Commission.
The report, required under the legislation that adopted renewable energy portfolio standards, showed the state’s utilities implemented $89 million in energy optimization programs in 2009, but those programs were projected to save utility customers $404 million over the lifetime of the projects.
That savings exceeded targets for the programs by 37 percent, the report said.
Utilities were expected to spend $137 million on the programs for 2010, the report said.
While the commission did not recommend any statutory changes, it is exploring some administrative actions to improve the effectiveness of the programs. Among those proposals are a buying consortium for efficient lighting and an energy optimization trading program similar to what is done for renewable energy.
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