John Albers

The decision follows April 15 oral arguments in which the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) defended its ability to implement the siting and permitting provisions of Public Act 233 (PA 233).

Michigan Public Radio reports that state utility regulators have warned Consumers Energy that it must start modeling the use of virtual power plants (VPPs) in its plans — or risk having some rate increases denied. United’s John Albers spoke to the benefits of VPPs in lowering energy costs, increasing reliability, and maximizing the use of existing infrastructure, pointing to examples of other states that have already implemented VPP programs.

Michigan utilities were forewarned they must consider virtual power plants (VPPs) before seeking to propose capital investments that ultimately raise customer rates.

Utility Dive reports that the Illinois Commerce Commission recently approved the Illinois Power Agency’s 2026 Long-Term Renewable Resources Procurement Plan, finalizing new contract-level provisions, including a new process for using regulatorily continuing provisions for renewable energy certificate contracts. United’s John Albers commended the commission’s decision, highlighting that the plan provides greater certainty for large community solar and utility-scale projects in Illinois.

The decision authorizes an immediate expansion of the Adjustable Block Program by 100 percent — doubling community, commercial, and small-scale solar categories.

Energy News Network reports on a case dismissed by the Wisconsin appeals court involving a family’s attempt to utilize third-party solar ownership. United’s John Albers hoped that the case would clarify the uncertainty in Wisconsin and empower other families to embrace solar.