Consumers Energy Initiates Ambitious Plan to Bury Power Lines Across Michigan

In a significant move to enhance electric reliability and safety, Consumers Energy has launched a comprehensive initiative to bury power lines in various Michigan communities. This effort is part of the company's broader strategy to strengthen the state's power grid and reduce the impact of severe weather on electricity supply.

Addressing Weather and Tree-Related Outages

One of the primary drivers behind this initiative is the frequent disruption caused by weather events such as lightning, high winds, tornadoes, heavy snow, and ice. Buried power lines are better protected from these elements, significantly reducing the likelihood of power outages. Additionally, trees, which are a leading cause of power loss, will have less impact as buried lines minimize the need for extensive tree trimming and allow for more trees to be planted in the area.

The pilot program, approved by the Michigan Public Service Commission, will initially focus on burying 10 miles of overhead power lines in six counties: Genesee, Livingston, Allegan, Ottawa, Montcalm, and Iosco. These areas have been identified for their frequent and lengthy outages, particularly due to dense tree cover.

Economic and Aesthetic Benefits

Burying power lines not only enhances reliability but also improves aesthetics, making areas more attractive to new businesses and homeowners. This can have a positive impact on local economic development. Furthermore, the reduced need for tree trimming and the protection from weather-related damage lower maintenance costs and allow for more coordinated maintenance activities with road repair projects.

Long-Term Goals and Investments

Consumers Energy aims to bury over 1,000 miles of power lines in the next five years, subject to regulatory approval. This ambitious plan is part of the company's $5.4 billion electric reliability plan, which includes investments in new technology, automation, tree trimming, and the replacement of aging equipment. The goal is to ensure that power can be restored to all customers within 24 hours, even after severe storms, and to limit the number of customers affected by outages to no more than 100,000 at any given time.

The current project near Standish, where crews are burying two miles of power lines along Palmer Road, is a testament to the company's commitment. This work is expected to continue through June and most of July, with brief power interruptions anticipated during the construction phase.

Commitment to Reliable and Clean Energy

As Michigan's largest energy provider, serving 6.8 million residents across all 68 Lower Peninsula counties, Consumers Energy is dedicated to delivering reliable, clean, and affordable energy 24/7. The undergrounding of power lines is a key component of the company's Reliability Roadmap, which outlines a comprehensive approach to strengthening the electric grid and preparing for future challenges.