Underground Power Line Pilot Program Proves Highly Effective Against Recent Severe Weather
JACKSON, Mich., June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Record-breaking severe weather has swept across the state during the first half of 2025. While these storms have left a path of destruction, Consumers Energy is proud to announce early successes from its underground power line pilot program. Initial data shows that areas included in the 9-mile pilot experienced fewer outages and improved overall system reliability compared to overhead-line service areas.
Buried power lines are better protected from common outage causes, including lightning, high winds, tornadoes, heavy snow, ice and falling tree limbs. Launched in 2024, the pilot program is a part of Consumers Energy's long-term plans to move more power lines underground, bolstering the company's infrastructure as outlined in the Reliability Roadmap.
Key Outcomes So Far in 2025:
- 100% reduction in storm-related outages to underground pilot areas compared to surrounding neighborhoods with overhead systems.
- Improved customer satisfaction, with feedback citing increased peace of mind during severe weather events.
"We are seeing clear, measurable benefits from this pilot program," said Chris Laird, Consumers Energy's vice president of electric operations. "Not only have we improved reliability for our customers, but we've also reduced emergency repair costs and enhanced public safety."
The pilot program targeted circuits that have frequent, lengthy outages and are in areas with dense trees in Genesee, Livingston, Allegan, Ottawa, Montcalm, and Iosco counties.
"In order for us to continue growing, we need reliable power," said Allegan County Commissioner Scott Beltman. "Consumers Energy is really stepping up to the plate to make (our county) reliable for our residents to live and prosper here."
Underground lines currently make up about 15 percent of all Consumers Energy electric lines, most being in subdivisions and areas with high population density. Burying lines improves reliability by 90% or more. In the next 5 years, the company aims to bury over 1,000 miles of line, subject to regulatory approval. As part of this expansion, Consumers Energy has requested to bury an additional 50 miles of overhead power lines beginning in mid-2026.
Consumers Energy is Michigan's largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties. Consumers Energy knows job number one is to keep the lights on for customers. We are committed to delivering reliable, flexible, and affordable energy to our customers 24/7.
For more information about Consumers Energy, go to ConsumersEnergy.com.
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SOURCE Consumers Energy