For Release: 03/05/2008

Michigan Gas Utilities Advises Customers about "Customer Choice" Marketers

Monroe, MI – Michigan Gas Utilities (MGU) is encouraging its customers to learn about what natural gas marketing companies are authorized under Michigan's "customer choice" program.

“There have been instances in other states where customers have inadvertently signed up with companies that aren’t allowed in their area,” said Paul Livernois, Manager of External Affairs. “Because we have several marketers working near our area, we thought it best to let our customers know who they could deal with — avoiding some complications or questions if they sign up with an unauthorized company.”

The marketing arm of Lakeshore Energy is the only marketer authorized for the Customer Choice program to operate within MGU territory at this time. Even if a marketer has been approved by the Michigan Public Service Commission, they still need to receive authorization to solicit customers in MGU’s service territory.

“Natural gas marketing, in which customers within our service area could choose a natural gas supplier other than MGU, began in 1985 and is occurring across our state.” said Livernois, “It’s usually done in heavily populated areas and usually with large volume accounts, such as business or industrial applications. In recent years, however, residential marketing has become appealing due to the increase in natural gas prices.

“We just don't want any confusion for MGU customers regarding who can provide their natural gas supply. Hopefully, we can eliminate any confusion in advance of contracts being signed; only to find out the marketer was inadvertently working an area outside of their jurisdiction.”

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