Feeling the Heat: Barrett, James, and Huizenga's Policies Drive Up Utility Costs as Summer Sets In
As summer temperatures rise, Michigan families are paying more to keep their homes cool. Beginning June 1, customers served by DTE Energy and Consumers Energy are facing higher peak electricity rates during weekday afternoons and evenings, when air conditioning use is at its highest.
Michigan residents were already seeing energy costs increase before summer began. According to the Michigan Public Service Commission, residential electric rates rose 4.6% between April 2025 and April 2026. And Congressmen Tom Barrett, John James, and Bill Huizenga have done nothing to ease the pain. All three supported the Republican Tax Law that rolls back clean energy tax credits aimed at lowering electricity costs.
An analysis from Energy Innovation found that reversing these tax credits would raise energy bills for Michiganders by $160 by 2030, and $320 by 2035. At a time when Michigan families are already facing rising utility bills and Consumers Energy is seeking a $456 million rate increase, families in Michigan’s 7th, 10th, and 4th Districts can’t afford Representative Barrett, James, and Huizenga’s policies that are contributing to high energy costs.
“It’s just the beginning of summer and we’re already seeing peak prices for using the air conditioner. I can’t imagine how much I’ll be spending as temperatures get even hotter,” said Mary Jo, an MI-04 resident and constituent of Rep. Bill Huizenga. “I’m disappointed that my congressman voted to repeal energy tax credits that helped relieve the high cost of electricity. I wish he would focus more on lowering costs for his constituents.”
As Michigan families brace for another summer of rising utility costs, they deserve leaders who will fight to make energy more affordable instead of supporting policies that put additional strain on household budgets. Michigan Families for Fair Care is calling on Representatives James, Huizenga, and Barrett to restore the clean energy tax credits to help lower Michigan electricity bills.
