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Consumers Energy Spreads Holiday Cheer Through Tree Planting

As the holiday season approaches, Consumers Energy is making a significant investment in the environment by supporting tree planting initiatives throughout Michigan. In collaboration with the Michigan Forestry and Parks Association (MFPA), the company has allocated over $500,000 since 2019 to fund tree planting grants. This has resulted in nearly 3,500 trees being planted across its service areas, with an impressive 423 trees added this year alone across 34 communities.

Sara Stewart, the Director of Forestry Operations at Consumers Energy, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "Trees are a gift that keeps giving. By prioritizing planting the right trees in the right places, we're creating benefits that last for generations while helping protect electric reliability." This initiative not only beautifies communities but also plays a vital role in maintaining electric stability.

The tree planting grant program emphasizes not only aesthetic improvements but also safety—ensuring that trees are planted away from electric lines. This approach mitigates future maintenance issues and promotes long-term reliability of electricity services. For instance, Luke Potter, the superintendent for the City of Clare Department of Public Works, noted the impact of Consumers Energy’s grant on his community, sharing that, "Thanks to Consumers Energy's grant, we were able to plant 10 trees in Clare that will provide shade, beauty, and environmental benefits for years to come. This program is a wonderful example of how partnerships can make our communities stronger."

By thoughtfully planting trees, Consumers Energy addresses a crucial issue—trees and branches account for nearly 40% of power outages. Collaborating with the MFPA allows them to not only enhance community aesthetics but also improve the efficiency of the electric system. Furthermore, this initiative aligns with the company’s wider Reliability Roadmap, which includes clearing trees from nearly 8,000 miles of power lines in 2025 alone.

Families throughout Michigan are preparing for the festive season by selecting their Christmas trees. In parallel, Consumers Energy is helping communities make informed decisions about which tree species to plant and where. This responsible planning minimizes future trimming needs and ensures harmonious coexistence between trees and power lines. The ultimate goal is to cultivate a greener and more dependable Michigan for generations to come.

Consumers Energy, as the largest energy provider in the state, serves 6.8 million of Michigan’s 10 million residents across 68 counties in the Lower Peninsula. Their commitment goes beyond providing energy; they are dedicated to delivering reliable and affordable energy 24/7 and enhancing the communities they serve. For more information about their initiatives, residents are encouraged to visit ConsumersEnergy.com.

In summary, Consumers Energy is not only embracing the holiday spirit but also taking tangible steps to foster greener, more resilient communities across Michigan. This initiative reflects their belief that environmental stewardship and community support go hand in hand, ensuring a brighter future for all.