Michigan Utilities

Some people across northern Michigan were without power for 18 days following a historic ice storm that blasted through the region in late March. In recent days, workers have repaired or replaced hundreds of utility poles in remote areas of Michigan wilderness to bring people back online.

With more ice storms expected in the decades ahead as the climate changes, utilities are trying to figure out how to be ready for the next ice storm.

Consumers Energy is implementing changes to how customers pay their bills.

During a state conference on climate change this week, environmental advocates called for more urgency in transitioning to renewable energy. They also called on the state to hold Michigan utility companies more accountable for failures.