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Consumers Energy’s 2027 Reliability Action Plan

In a significant move to enhance the electric grid's reliability in Michigan, Consumers Energy is preparing to file its 2027 Reliability Action Plan. This vital strategy, set to be submitted to the Michigan Public Service Commission on June 2, aims to reduce the frequency and duration of power outages for residents across the state.

Greg Salisbury, Consumers Energy's Senior Vice President of Electric Distribution, emphasized the company's commitment to minimizing outages. He stated, "We want our customers to experience fewer outages -- and when the power does go out, we're focused on restoring it as quickly as possible." This proactive approach underscores the utility's dedication to investing in smart infrastructure improvements to ensure a steady power supply.

The Journey Towards Enhanced Reliability

Since ramping up investment in various infrastructure projects late in the previous decade, Consumers Energy has witnessed significant improvements. Since 2021, customers have benefitted from an average reduction of one hour in power interruptions, translating to a 28% decline in outages under normal conditions.

Despite Michigan experiencing a 20% increase in weather-related outages last year, the utility successfully implemented strategic measures resulting in 130,000 fewer outages affecting homes and businesses. Remarkably, around 75% of every customer dollar is being redirected into fortifying the grid.

Key Initiatives in the 2027 Plan

The detailed 2027 Reliability Action Plan includes several critical measures aimed at bolstering service reliability:
1. Tree Clearance: Addressing the primary cause of outages, Consumers Energy plans a five-year initiative to clear trees from power lines. This project aims to increase the mileage of cleared low-voltage lines from 8,000 in the previous year to 16,000 by 2030.
2. Underground Lines: The strategy includes burying approximately 50 miles of power lines underground to protect them from severe weather. Such measures can enhance reliability by over 90%. Featured projects will take place in areas such as Jackson, Newaygo, Flint, Allegan County, and Kent County.
3. Addressing Frequent Outages: The utility will target circuits that frequently face outages, assessing and resolving the underlying issues to deliver more consistent service.
4. Advanced Monitoring Technology: By incorporating sensors and automated devices, Consumers Energy aims to enhance system monitoring and management, allowing for quicker responses to potential issues.

Supporting Customers Through Challenges

In addition to these infrastructure improvements, Consumer Energy is dedicated to providing resources for customers to manage their energy expenses. The company has reached out to over 30,000 individuals this year through phone calls and local events, promoting various programs designed to assist with rising energy costs.

Kelly Hall, the Senior Vice President of Regulatory and Legal Affairs at Consumers Energy, acknowledged the financial pressures many families are facing. "We understand our friends and neighbors are facing rising costs, from gasoline to groceries. We will continue to connect people with money-saving programs and assistance in their community while making upgrades that power their lives more reliably."

Details regarding the 2027 Reliability Action Plan will be accessible online starting June 2 at ConsumersEnergy.com/residential/account-and-billing/rates/rate-case.

As Michigan's largest utility provider, Consumers Energy is committed to supplying natural gas and electricity to approximately 6.8 million residents across all 68 counties in the Lower Peninsula. The company's focus remains on delivering dependable and cost-effective energy around the clock.

For further insights into Consumers Energy and its initiatives, visit ConsumersEnergy.com.