Changes to Great Lakes Energy’s “Rate Book for Electric Service” were recently approved by its board, and take effect Jan. 1, 2015.

In accordance with P.A. 167 of 2008, the changes affect some special charges, such as the Misc. Special Service Charge and Bad Check Handling Fee, line extension fees, load management eligibility, deposit interest, and establish a new rate that enables eligible members to pre-pay for electricity use. Instead of receiving monthly bills, members who pre-pay will make payments on their own schedule.

P.A. 167 paved the way for Michigan electric co-ops to become member-regulated if their members approved it by a majority vote. Besides Great Lakes Energy, the following co-ops are now member-regulated: Alger Delta, Cherryland, Ontonagon County REA, Presque Isle Electric & Gas, and HomeWorks Tri-County Electric.