Consumers Energy Expands Emergency Relief for Struggling Customers in Michigan

Consumers Energy Expands Emergency Relief for Struggling Customers

In a significant move to support its customers, Consumers Energy has updated its policies pertaining to State Emergency Relief (SER) funds, now enabling more residents in Michigan to access crucial financial aid for their energy bills. This initiative aims to assist income-qualified customers who otherwise might struggle to cover their electricity and natural gas expenses.

Effective immediately, the new guidelines allow customers who haven't already received the full $500 annual payment to potentially qualify for additional financial assistance. The SER funds are designed to help those whose household income is at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, providing a one-time benefit of up to $500 per utility service.

Starting on July 7, 2025, new applicants who have yet to receive any SER funds during the Fiscal Year 2025 (which concludes on September 30) are eligible to apply for the entire $500 amount, irrespective of their outstanding balances. Previously, the aid offered was somewhat limited, and even customers with lower debt amounts could only receive relief once per fiscal year. However, the updated policy enables them to obtain the maximum amount up to the $500 cap if they still owe additional funds. This change acknowledges the challenges many households encounter in maintaining their energy payments, particularly as utility costs continue to rise amidst various economic factors.

Last year alone, approximately 540,000 customers benefitted from this assistance program, distributing a substantial $38.4 million among those in need. This included assistance for 137,000 families within 30 counties across Michigan, demonstrating the program's impact in providing support at a local level.

In addition to SER funds, Consumers Energy encourages anyone struggling with energy expenses to seek help with the community resource hotline at 2-1-1, which connects individuals to organizations ready to assist. Customers can also visit ConsumersEnergy.com/Assistance for more extensive resources.

To further simplify the process of receiving assistance, Consumers Energy has unveiled a new feature called "My Personalized Offerings." This user-friendly tool allows customers to easily identify and enroll in customized payment and energy management programs—helping them find the appropriate level of support tailored to their unique situations. It is accessible to all customers through the company’s website and is a testament to their commitment to tailoring services that promote accessibility and support.

Lauren Snyder, the Senior Vice President and Chief Customer and Growth Officer at Consumers Energy, emphasized the company's dedication to equity and support for Michiganders who depend on reliable energy resources. She stated, "We’re dedicated to equity, accessibility, and affordability for Michiganders who count on us for reliable electricity and natural gas.”

As Michigan's largest energy provider, serving approximately 6.8 million residents with natural gas and electricity across all 68 counties in the Lower Peninsula, Consumers Energy is committed to ensuring that all customers can access the support they need amid rising living costs.

For further information about the available energy assistance programs, consumers are encouraged to check out the Consumers Energy website and connect with the company on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. No one should face the burden of energy costs alone, and with these newly implemented changes, Consumers Energy is positioned to lend a helping hand to those who require it most.