Consumers Energy Slashes Rates and Launches 2025 Rebates—See How Much You Could Save

LANSING, Mich.—Consumers Energy is mobilizing roughly 500 line and tree-trimming crews ahead of a powerful cyclone-driven winter storm forecast to slam Michigan with 50-mph wind gusts, heavy snow and ice late Sunday night into Monday. The Jackson-based utility says crews will fan out statewide from 10 p.m. tonight to tackle downed wires and restore power as quickly as possible, after more than 120,000 customers lost electricity during last week’s ice storm. Utility spokesperson Norm Kapala urged residents to charge devices, prepare emergency kits and stay at least 25 feet from any fallen lines. Key safety reminders include: • Slow down near repair crews and give bucket trucks extra room. • Report outages or wires by calling 800-477-5050. • Never run generators indoors to avoid deadly carbon-monoxide buildup. Potential outages come as the state’s largest natural-gas supplier seeks its fourth straight annual rate increase. Earlier this month Consumers Energy asked the Michigan Public Service Commission for a $240 million hike that would raise average residential gas bills 8.2 percent starting late 2026, citing the need to replace aging pipelines. Consumer watchdogs argue the “revolving door” of filings is straining household budgets already stretched by higher winter heating costs. What customers should know: 1. Outage updates: track real-time restoration estimates at ConsumersEnergy.com/outagemap or the CE mobile app. 2. Payment help: Winter Protection Plan and Consumers Affordable Resource for Energy (CARE) enrollment remain open for income-eligible households. 3. Long-term bills: Public comment on the rate case (MPSC docket U-21692) is open; a decision is expected by November 1, 2026. With wind chills dipping below zero, Consumers Energy advises stocking flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food and bottled water for 72 hours. Homeowners relying on natural gas should clear snow from furnace and water-heater vents to prevent carbon-monoxide poisoning. If the storm delivers the predicted punch, January could start with another round of record outage totals. Staying informed—and prepared—can keep Michigan families safe while regulators weigh how much more they will pay to keep the lights and heat on.