Reliable, affordable communications are essential for every Michigan household and business. In this episode of Behind the Meter: an MPSC Podcast, host Mike Byrne and Commissioner Shaquila Myers are joined by Ryan McAnany, Director of the Telecommunications Division at the Michigan Public Service Commission, and Eric Frederick, Michigan’s Chief Connectivity Officer with the High-Speed Internet Office, to talk about the state of telecommunications and broadband in Michigan.
Together, they break down the progress being made to expand high-speed internet access, the challenges of closing the digital divide, and how programs like Lifeline help make phone and internet services more affordable for those who need them most. The conversation also clears up common questions about what the MPSC does and does not regulate in telecommunications and looks ahead at what residents can expect as Michigan builds a more connected future.
Whether you’re in a rural community waiting for better broadband service or simply curious about how telecommunications policy affects your daily life, this episode offers practical insights for every Michigander.
Resources:
Lifeline: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/consumer/telecommunications/lifeline
Telecommunications: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/consumer/telecommunications
Broadband Equite, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program: https://www.michigan.gov/leo/bureaus-agencies/mihi/funding-opportunities/bead
Michigan High-Speed Internet Office: https://www.michigan.gov/leo/bureaus-agencies/mihi
Universal Service Administrative Co. (USAC): https://www.usac.org/
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27:48
Meet Commissioner Myers
In this special episode of Behind the Meter: an MPSC Podcast, host Mike Byrne sits down with the Commission’s newest member, Commissioner Shaquila Myers, to explore her path to public service, the experiences that shaped her approach to energy regulation, and her priorities for ensuring safe, reliable, and affordable service for all Michiganders.
Joining the conversation are Chair Dan Scripps and Commissioner Katherine Peretick, who welcome Commissioner Myers and discuss how the Commission is tackling Michigan’s biggest energy challenges—from grid reliability and customer affordability to the state’s clean energy transition and community engagement.
Whether you’re new to the MPSC or a longtime follower of Michigan’s energy policy, this episode offers an insider’s look at the Commission’s leadership and what’s ahead.
Resources:
Commissioner Myers Bio: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/about/commissioners/shaquila-myers
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25:24
Utility Scams
In this episode of Behind the Meter: an MPSC Podcast, we’re shining a light on a growing threat to Michigan energy customers—utility scams. From phone calls demanding immediate payment to imposters showing up at your door, scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to trick consumers out of their money and personal information.
We’re joined by Monica Martinez, a nationally recognized expert in utility scams and consumer protection, who shares the latest trends, red flags to watch for, and what you can do to stay safe.Also returning to the show is Dan Scripps, Chair of the Michigan Public Service Commission, who offers insights into the Commission’s role in protecting customers and working with utilities to raise awareness and prevent fraud.
If you’ve ever wondered how to tell a real utility notice from a scam—or what to do if you’re targeted—this episode is packed with practical tips and resources to help you stay informed and protected.
Propane Resources:
Utilities United Against Scams: https://www.utilitiesunited.org/
Federal Trade Commission: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/scammers-pretend-be-your-utility-company
MPSC Utility Scam Detector: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/-/media/Project/Websites/mpsc/spotlight/Utility_Scam_Alert_Detector.pdf?rev=c9fbbc31206f425f8c77d460f29f4142
MPSC How to Protect Yourself Against Utility Scams: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/-/media/Project/Websites/mpsc/consumer/info/tips/Protect_yourself_against_utility_scams.pdf?rev=fb7b4e1be1494abd941cce4f7a19316f
MI Attorney General:
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23:21
Propane
In this episode of Behind the Meter: an MPSC Podcast, we’re taking a closer look at propane—an essential energy source for thousands of Michigan homes, farms, and businesses. With winter always on the horizon in a state like ours, ensuring a steady, affordable propane supply is critical.
We’re joined by Andrew Vanderboegh, Chairman of the Michigan Propane Commission, who shares insights on how propane is stored, distributed, and priced across the state. We’ll also hear from Alex Morese, Manager of the Energy Security Section at the Michigan Public Service Commission, who explains the role of the MPSC in monitoring propane readiness and coordinating emergency response during supply disruptions.
Whether you rely on propane or are simply interested in how Michigan ensures energy resilience, this episode covers what you need to know to stay informed—and stay warm.
Propane Resources:
Pre-plan for heating season: www.heatingmyhome.org
Michigan Propane Gas Association: www.mipga.org
Michigan Propane Commission Rebates: https://mipropanerebates.com/
Michigan seasonal energy appraisals: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/regulatory/reports/other
U.S. Energy Information Administration: www.eia.gov
MPSC Propane & Petroleum:
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34:16
Severe Weather, Power Outages, and Power Restoration
In this episode of Behind the Meter, we explore how the state prepares for, responds to, and recovers from widespread power outages caused by storms, wind, and ice.
Host Mike Byrne is joined by two experts from the Michigan Public Service Commission: Julie Baldwin, Manager of the Energy Operations Division, and Julie Ginevan, Energy Emergency Planning Specialist in the Energy Security Section. Together, they break down how utilities plan for emergencies, the protocols followed during major outage events, and the role of the MPSC in ensuring a safe, reliable, and resilient energy system. Listeners will gain insight into the behind-the-scenes coordination that happens before, during, and after a weather disaster, and what’s being done to improve Michigan’s response and recovery in the face of a changing climate.
Severe Weather Resources:
Preparing for an Emergency: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/consumer/emergency-preparedness
Preparing for and Responding to Power Outages: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/consumer/be-informed/preparing-for-and-responding-to-power-outages
Customer Outage History: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/consumer/electricity/customer-outage-history
Downed Power Line Safety: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/-/media/Project/Websites/mpsc/consumer/Storm-Power-Outage-Preparedness-Guide/Downed-Power-Line-Ssafety.jpg?rev=2dc5d9c760c1487da3c07691f20bbebf
Power Outage Credits:
We take you inside the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) to explore the vital work we do in regulating utilities and services across the state of Michigan. We’ll introduce you to our commissioners, employees and special guests throughout the way as we discuss how we serve Michigan residents by ensuring safe, reliable, and affordable access to essential utilities like electricity, natural gas and telecommunications. Tune in to learn more about the people, processes, and impact of the MPSC as we work to improve the lives of Michigan’s residents every day.
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