Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund (LIEAF) Notice
The Marquette Board of Light and Power (MBLP), along with other Michigan electric utilities, will begin funding the Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund (LIEAF) as required by the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). This program expands eligibility and funding for the Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP), providing additional support to qualifying customers.
The MPSC annually sets the LIEAF surcharge for all utilities. For the 2025–26 heating season, the monthly charge will be $1.25 per meter, beginning with September billing statements. Funds collected are distributed to local assistance agencies to help income-eligible households with electric bills.
Key details include:
- The surcharge applies to each retail billing meter (with no more than one charge per residential site).
- The charge is uniform across all customer classes and will appear as a separate line item on electric bills.
- All funds collected by MBLP are directed to designated state agencies, which process applications and distribute aid to qualified applicants.
The MPSC and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) ensure that, to the extent possible, funds collected within a geographic area are returned to that area. The objectives of LIEAF are to:
- Provide statewide access to MEAP for eligible low-income households.
- Promote collaboration among DHHS, MPSC, utilities, and assistance administrators to ensure equitable distribution of funds.
- Increase education and outreach about available energy assistance resources.
Customer Assistance
Customers meeting the eligibility requirements established by the State of Michigan and its partner agencies may apply for financial assistance directly through those agencies. Updated program information and income guidelines will be posted in September at: Superiorwatersheds.org
Background
Launched in 2013, assistance through Public Act 95 was originally an optional program. However, a 2024 amendment now requires all electric utilities to collect a non-bypassable surcharge to support low-income energy assistance. Utilities may either:
- Opt in to LIEAF, or
- Opt out by creating and funding their own residential energy assistance program aligned with MEAP requirements. Opt out programs are to be funded to the same amount as an opt in program.
The Marquette Board of Light and Power (MBLP) has historically opted out of the state program, which ensured that customers were not subject to shutoffs during winter months for unpaid electric bills. Beginning with the 2025–26 program year, however, the MBLP Board has voted to participate on a one-year trial basis. By opting in, customers will now have access to energy assistance programs year-round, while the MBLP retains the ability to disconnect service for nonpayment. This period will provide an opportunity to evaluate the program’s impact on our community and guide future decisions regarding long-term participation.
Additional Sources of Information
Superior Watershed Partnership Assistance Page (Click Here)
State of Michigan MEAP Information Page (Click Here)
