#USA #Jackson #Consumers Energy #Squirrel Day #Wildlife Protection

Celebrating National Squirrel Day: Protecting Nature and Power

As National Squirrel Day approaches, Consumers Energy stands out by not only acknowledging this day but actively highlighting its commitment to both wildlife protection and maintaining reliable electricity for its customers. The intersection of wildlife and technology may not be a common theme; however, it's a significant focus for energy providers like Consumers Energy, who recognize that small creatures such as squirrels can inadvertently cause major disruptions in power supply.

The Impact of Wildlife on Power Supply

According to Consumers Energy, approximately 8% of power outages each year can be attributed to wildlife, particularly squirrels and raccoons. These animals often explore substations and other critical infrastructure, leading to unforeseen problems. As a result, the company has initiated a series of strategies to mitigate these incidents while honoring their responsibility to keep the lights on.

Infrastructure Upgrades with Wildlife in Mind

Since 2012, Consumers Energy has made substantial strides in improving its infrastructure to create a win-win situation for wildlife and customers. Their Reliability Roadmap includes nearly 600 animal mitigation projects, leading to over 90% of substations now being safeguarded against wildlife intrusions.

The upgrades encompass:

• - Gate Foundations: These barriers prevent animals from burrowing under fences or attempting to sneak through entry points, ensuring that vital facilities remain undisturbed.
• - Polycarbonate Barriers: Clear, durable shields have been installed to block unauthorized access while ensuring minimal impact on wildlife.
• - Bushing Guards: These protective frameworks are crucial for safeguarding critical electrical components, preventing animals from causing disruptions.
• - Pole Wraps: Specialized coverings on utility poles have been designed to deter climbing animals and reduce accidental contact that could lead to power outages.

A Commitment to Safety

Chris Laird, Consumers Energy's vice president of electric distribution, emphasizes the importance of these efforts: "Our goal is to create a win-win for both wildlife and our customers. By proactively installing these mitigation measures, we're preventing outages and ensuring that squirrels, raccoons, and other animals stay safe and away from harm."

The success of these adaptations is reflected in their performance metrics. In the previous year, Consumers Energy managed to reduce customers' average outage time by over 20 minutes, showcasing the effectiveness of their initiatives. In furtherance of their commitment to a smarter and more resilient power grid, the company is exploring advanced technologies, including infrared cameras and even the use of a robotic dog to monitor wildlife.

Conclusion

As Michigan's largest energy provider, Consumers Energy serves 6.8 million residents across 68 Lower Peninsula counties, and their initiatives showcase a dedication to sustainable practices while prioritizing customer satisfaction. Celebrating National Squirrel Day is not merely a nod to these creatures; it's a testament to the company’s approach of integrating nature with technology, ensuring that as wildlife thrives, the lights stay on.

For more insights and updates from Consumers Energy, visit ConsumersEnergy.com or follow them on their social media channels including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

As we commemorate National Squirrel Day, it's essential to recognize the efforts being made to safeguard wildlife, while also appreciating the continual challenge of maintaining reliable energy supply. In celebrating this day, we acknowledge the balance we must strive for between technological advancement and environmental stewardship.