What are we doing to protect Michigans supply of energy?
While no industry is totally immune to the risk of disruptions to production facilities, electric and natural gas utilities, and the petroleum industry have all taken steps to increase security. Natural gas and electric utilities also have a number of emergency procedures in place to quickly respond to any disruption in their ability to meet customers needs, whether that occurs as a result of storm damage, equipment failure, or a terrorist attack. The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) monitors the states overall energy supply and demand, tracks energy prices, and has contingency plans available to address energy shortages. Under state law, the Governor has the power to declare an energy emergency that would permit him to quickly address an energy supply disruption. The Chairman of the MPSC also serves as Chair of the interdepartmental Energy Advisory Committee, which was established by the Energy Emergency Act. MPSC staff also works closely with the Emergency Management Divisio