LANSING, MI (AP)-- Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has named an energy-efficiency leader to join Michigan's commission that regulates utilities and telecommunication providers.
Tremaine Phillips's appointment to the three-member Public Service Commission was announced Wednesday. It will take effect unless the state Senate disapproves.
Phillips would succeed Norm Saari, whose term expired two weeks ago.
Phillips currently directs the Cincinnati 2030 District, which is working to reduce buildings' energy use, water consumption and transportation emissions by 50% by the year 2030. He formerly was vice president of strategic initiatives for an energy-efficiency company in Ohio and briefly worked in the administration of former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm.
Whitmer says Phillips' diverse background gives him the knowledge and insight to be successful in the new position. A number of environmental and business groups applauded his selection.
