Marcella Putterman

Marcella Putterman asked about CMS Energy's strategy for managing customer affordability in Michigan, especially in an election year, considering national trends of rising energy costs and the potential for data center additions to impact bills.

Answer

Garrick Rochow (CEO, CMS Energy) highlighted Michigan's favorable position (MISO, regulated utility, owned generation for hedging, large natural gas storage) compared to PJM states. He cited significant customer savings in 2025 ($250 million from self-generation, $100 million from CE Way, $1.2 billion from energy waste reduction). Mr. Rochow referenced polling data indicating groceries, not energy, as the primary cost of living concern for Michigan residents. He also noted that rate freezes are illegal in Michigan based on state law and court precedent, and described CMS Energy's proactive engagement with gubernatorial candidates to offer policy solutions for affordability.

Marcella Putterman inquired about CMS Energy's strategy regarding affordability in Michigan, particularly in an election year, referencing how rate increases have become a significant political topic in other states. She asked how CMS Energy is managing bill growth compared to national averages and customer 'share of wallet,' and the potential savings from data center additions.

Answer

Garrick Rochow, President and CEO, highlighted CMS Energy's long-standing commitment to affordability, citing their regulated utility model, ownership of generation (saving customers $250 million in 2025 by self-generating), and large natural gas storage fields. He mentioned $100 million in savings through the CE Way in 2025 and $1.2 billion in customer measures from energy efficiency programs. Mr. Rochow noted that Michigan polling indicates groceries, not energy costs, are the primary concern for residents regarding cost of living. He also stated that rate freezes are illegal in Michigan based on state law and case law, and that CMS Energy actively engages with gubernatorial candidates to offer policy solutions for affordability.