Dive Brief:

• Michigan utilities on average achieved about 125% of their energy savings goals last year, according to reports recently released by the state’s Public Service Commission (PSC).
• Utilities spent $246 million on energy efficiency programs last year, moves that are intended to save $936 million over the lifecycle of the projects. The PSC expects programs to generate savings of more than $2.8 billion from 2013 through 2015.
• The 2008 state law that mandates renewable energy use also sets efficiency targets of about 1% of retail sales annually. Monthly surcharges that average $3.29 for electric and gas service fund programs to provide compact fluorescent bulbs and rebates on high-efficiency furnaces.

Dive Insight:

Efficiency seems to be working in a high-cost state like Michigan. A companion report suggests the state can do even better with greater use of emerging technologies.