Environment

Judge says landowner filed drilling suit too late

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By ERIC FREEDMAN
Capital News Service
LANSING – An Alcona County man waited too long to sue an energy company that may have drilled a natural gas well too close to his property line, a federal judge has ruled. Much too long. U.S. District Judge Thomas Ludington said Richard Brilinski missed the deadline by waiting about 15 years to start the litigation. “Brilinski’s delay in bringing his claim is inexcusable,” Ludington said in his ruling. Brilinski’s lawyer, Corey Wiggins of Cadillac, said he doesn’t know yet whether there will be an appeal.

Business & Economy

Natural gas supply exceeds demand, forcing prices down

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By JENNIFER CHEN
Capital News Service
LANSING – Falling natural gas prices in the state might prompt drilling companies to cut production, according to the Michigan Oil and Gas Association. A growing supply of natural gas in the state has weakened prices, putting pressure on drillers, said association president Frank Mortl. With dropping prices, producers are hurting, but consumers are huge winners, he said. Michigan ranked 13th among the states in natural gas production in 2006, according to Oil Gas Michigan. “The warm winter made customers pay less for natural gas on their bill.

Business & Economy

Natural gas prices down, electricity prices uncertain

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By NICK MORDOWANEC
Capital News Service
LANSING – While electric rates are yet to be determined, lower natural gas prices may help Michigan residents keep more money in their pockets this winter. The state’s Public Service Commission (PSC) announced that natural gas prices are decreasing, but rates for electricity are still uncertain. The PSC’s projection is based on an annual winter energy appraisal to determine what customers should expect to pay for heating in a given season. “It is good news for customers,” said Judy Palnau, public information officer for the PSC. “We are looking at a normal to slightly-warmer-than-normal winter this year, as opposed to being slightly colder than normal.”
Palnau said natural gas rates are expected to be 12 percent lower than last winter, and if outdoor temperatures are at or above normal, bills could drop as much as 16 percent.