Consumers Energy plans $248 million upgrade to Michigan's natural gas system

(UI) — Consumers Energy has unveiled plans to modernize Michigan's natural gas infrastructure, including replacing up to 10,000 aging service lines and installing remote-control valves on major pipelines to enhance safety and efficiency.

The upgrades, part of the company's long-term Natural Gas Delivery Plan, aim to strengthen the system serving over 1.8 million Michigan homes and businesses.

"This month's cold weather provides a real-life reminder of the need for a strong natural gas system that keeps our friends and neighbors warm," said Holly Bowers, vice president of gas engineering and supply. "Our Natural Gas Delivery Plan is ensuring our system remains safe in all weather, while continuing to get cleaner for Michigan's environment and costing the typical household less than $3 a day."

Key initiatives under the plan include:

• Replacing up to 10,000 vintage service lines to reduce the risk of gas leaks
• Installing remote-control valves on transmission pipelines by the mid-2030s to improve emergency response times.
• Modernizing gas delivery hubs and pressure regulation facilities over the next decade.

Consumers Energy also highlighted the recent completion of the Mid-Michigan Pipeline as part of its statewide system upgrades.

To fund these improvements, the company filed a $248 million natural gas rate request with the Michigan Public Service Commission. If approved, the changes would not impact customer bills until late 2025.

"Consumers Energy is honored to serve so many Michiganders who count on us," said Chris Fultz, vice president of natural gas operations. "When you see Consumers Energy employees at work, you can be sure we're making our system safe and secure to serve you for years to come."

Consumers Energy provides natural gas or electricity to 6.8 million residents across Michigan's Lower Peninsula.

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