Consumers Energy to end use of coal in Michigan by 2025
LANSING, Mich., (WPBN/WGTU) – Consumers Energy and the Attorney General have reached a settlement to end the use of coal in Michigan, according to a press release.
Attorney General Dana Nessel entered into a proposed settlement agreement with Consumers Energy Company in its integrated resource planning case, Case No. U-21090, before the Michigan Public Service Commission.
If approved, it will result in Consumers Energy ending its use of coal by 2025, 15 years earlier than originally planned.
The settlement agreement also provides for the building of almost 8,000 additional megawatts of solar energy by 2040.
It is anticipated that Consumers Energy will generate 90% of its electricity using clean energy resources by 2040.
Consumers Energy also agreed to donate $5 million this year to a fund that helps low-income utility ratepayers, with a potential for $33 million in total assistance in additional $2 million increments over a 14-year period.
“Not only is this settlement a win for our environment, it’s also a win for Michigan ratepayers who have struggled to stay current on their bills,” Nessel said. “This agreement was truly a collaborative effort from all involved parties and a symbol of what we can achieve when stakeholders work together to create positive change.”
The Citizens Utility Board of Michigan, a non-profit, was also involved in negotiating a settlement.
“CUB applauds the AG for striking this settlement that will provide $5 million of new assistance for low-income residential customers this year and Consumers will continue to donate up to $2 million a year to this fund over the next 14 years,” said Amy Bandyk the executive director for the Board.
“Importantly, these donations will not be recovered through higher rates, but rather donated by Consumers Energy,” Bandyk said. “Residential rates have been soaring over the past few years, so this assistance is a good step. We hope to continue working with the AG to win much-needed relief for ratepayers.”
