NOVI – In the August 19 episode of MITech TV, we were joined by Tony Mosesso, manager of state government affairs at ITC. With election season right around the corner, Mosesso spoke about how policymakers in Lansing affect energy customers and companies across the state.
In Mosesso’s role, he collaborates with government officials and policymakers to work towards ITC’s and the overall energy industry’s goals. This involves networking with policymakers and local representatives to advocate for the transmission of reliable energy.
Policy plays a major role in how utilities do business, given the highly regulated nature of the energy industry. As the industry embarks on a period of rapid change, driven by growing energy demands and a shift towards renewable energy, utilities are calling for consistency and collaboration in policy.
Though the energy industry is not an industry traditionally known to move quickly. Energy projects take an average of 7-10 years to be completed. As a result, utilities face significant challenges when policies that affect the energy industry are changed alongside different political administrations. Utilities warn that, when policy changes throw off an ongoing energy project, customers and companies alike are not able to realize the full benefits of that project.
Similarly, changes in policy can have a knock-on effect on the transition towards clean energy. On both the state and national level, timelines for clean energy goals are dictated by policymakers. The transition requires significant planning, investment and implementation from utilities, and Mosesso says energy companies simply don’t have the ability to pivot on a dime.
Beyond energy industry-specific issues, utilities and policymakers must foster a collaborative relationship to ensure the economic growth of our region. Energy demand is rising due to several factors, including Michigan’s push to nearshore manufacturing jobs and the immense energy needs of data centers and AI technologies. The state needs a grid capable of supporting these energy needs to grow the region, Mosesso says.
Mosesso also added that, while the two sides of the political aisle don’t agree on everything when it comes to energy, it’s important to keep in mind the economic benefits of improving the grid. Because nearly everything we do requires energy, it’s advantageous for both parties to rally around the topic.
To learn more about ITC, visit itcmichigan.com
