FERC Staff Protests Consumers Energy's Dubious Natural Gas Rate Math
Published Date: 3/25/2026
Notice
Summary
Consumers Energy wants to use a special rate for moving natural gas across state lines, but the Commission staff isn’t convinced their math adds up. They say Consumers Energy didn’t show enough proof that their rates are fair or explain how they split costs properly. This could affect gas customers and the company’s pricing soon, as the Commission reviews the case and waits for better info.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
FERC Staff Protests Proposed Gas Rate
Consumers Energy asked to use its state-approved Transmission Only Transportation (TOT) rate for interstate gas service in filings made May 19, 2025 (amended Sept 12, 2025) and a compliance filing on February 2, 2026. Commission staff formally protested on March 20, 2026, saying the company did not show the TOT rate is fair and equitable; this review could affect gas customers and the company’s pricing as the Commission considers the matter.
Staff Requires Cost Allocation Evidence
Commission staff says Consumers Energy did not provide evidence to back claims that most compression supports storage, that its TOT rate excludes variable costs, or that forward-looking costs are fixed. Staff asked for supporting items such as a breakdown of Operation and Maintenance expenses or a projected cost of service so it can determine compliance with the December 18, 2025 order.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-06504 — Combined Notice of Filings
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission got several filings from natural gas pipeline companies about rate changes and reports. These updates could affect how much customers pay starting as soon as April 1 or May 1, 2026. If you want to share your thoughts, you have until April 13, 2026, to comment.
2026-06503 — Combined Notice of Filings #1
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission got several new filings from energy companies about power plant approvals, solar projects, and rate changes. These filings affect companies like Bayonne Energy Center, Heritage Power, and others, with deadlines for public comments in mid to late April 2026. Some changes could impact how much customers pay or how energy is managed starting as soon as April 1, 2026.
2026-06432 — Erie Boulevard Hydropower L.P.; Notice of Application for Non-Capacity Amendment of License Accepted for Filing and Soliciting Comments, Motions To Intervene, and Protests
Erie Boulevard Hydropower wants to make some changes to their Beebee Island Project on the Black River in Watertown, NY, but these changes won’t affect how much power they produce. The government is now asking the public and agencies to share their thoughts or concerns by April 29, 2026. This process helps make sure the project stays safe and environmentally friendly without costing extra money or changing power output.
2026-06299 — Village of Saranac Lake; Notice of Application Accepted for Filing and Soliciting Motions To Intervene and Protests
The Village of Saranac Lake wants to keep running its Lake Flower Dam hydroelectric project in New York and has officially asked for a new license. If you live nearby or care about the river, now’s your chance to speak up by May 26, 2026. This could affect local energy and the environment, so don’t miss your shot to join the conversation!
2026-06301 — Combined Notice of Filings
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission got several filings from natural gas companies about rates, reports, and agreements. These filings could affect pipeline customers and market players, with some rate changes starting April 1, 2026. If you want to speak up or get involved, you need to act by early April and follow the rules to join the conversation.
2026-06298 — Village of Saranac Lake; Notice of Scoping Period Requesting Comments on Environmental Issues for the Proposed Lake Flower Dam Hydroelectric Project
The Village of Saranac Lake is asking for your thoughts on the environmental impact of renewing the license for the Lake Flower Dam Hydroelectric Project on the Saranac River. This is your chance to help shape how the project affects local nature and community before a final decision is made. Make sure to send your comments by April 2, 2026, so your voice counts in this important energy and environment update!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-05834 — Electric Quarterly Reports; TrueLight Energy, LLC, TrueLight Commodities, LLC, Neighborhood Sun Benefit Corp: Notice of Revocation of Market-Based Rate Authority and Termination of Electric Market-Based Rate Tariff
TrueLight Energy, TrueLight Commodities, and Neighborhood Sun Benefit Corp didn’t file their required reports on time, so the government took away their permission to sell electricity at market prices. This change is effective immediately, meaning these companies can no longer use their special rate plans. If you’re a customer or partner, expect changes in how these companies sell power starting now.
Next: 2026-05836 — Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection Renewal; Comment Request
The FDIC wants to renew a paperwork collection that affects state banks, savings groups, and related folks. They’re asking for your thoughts by April 27, 2026, but so far, no one has spoken up. This renewal keeps things running smoothly without adding new costs or big changes.
Take It Personal
Get Your Personalized Policy View
Start a Free Government Policy Watch to see how policy affects your household, then upgrade to PRIA Full Coverage for year-round monitoring.
Already have an account? Sign in