Consumers Energy Burying Power Lines in Four Michigan Communities
- Consumers Energy is investing $3.7 million to bury power lines in four Michigan communities.
- The project aims to enhance grid reliability and protect infrastructure from severe weather.
- This initiative is part of a long-term plan to bury 1,000 miles of power lines over the next five years.
In Michigan, Consumers Energy is undertaking a significant project to bury power lines in four communities: Allegan, Allendale, Hillsdale, and Saugatuck. This initiative, which began on September 30, 2024, is part of the company's broader Reliability Roadmap aimed at enhancing the resilience of the power grid. The company is investing $3.7 million in this pilot program, which is expected to last over the next two months. The goal is to bury 10 miles of power lines this year, with plans to bury a total of 1,000 miles over the next five years. This effort is designed to protect the infrastructure from severe weather, ensuring that power can be restored to customers within 24 hours after storms. Chris Laird, the vice president of electric operations at Consumers Energy, emphasized the importance of this project in maintaining reliable service for the 6.8 million residents served by the company. The initiative is part of a larger strategy that includes various upgrades and technological advancements to improve service reliability. Consumers Energy aims to not only bury power lines but also implement other measures such as increased line clearing and the use of durable materials. This commitment reflects the company's dedication to providing clean, affordable energy while enhancing the overall reliability of the power supply in Michigan.