Consumers Energy is evaluating how customers could be impacted if the utility sells or decommissions its hydroelectric dams.
Consumers operates 13 dams on Michigan rivers. The utility generates less than one percent of its energy from the facilities.
The dams will need to have their licenses renewed in 2034. The utility reports it would be cheaper to shut down the dams rather than keeping the facilities online. But officials with Consumers say both options would push costs onto customers.
Spokesperson Josh Burgett says the utility is considering its options.
“We're absolutely looking at how does our decision impact communities from a taxing standpoint, how does it impact residents? How does it impact tourism? And then also, how does it impact rates?”
Burget says Consumers Energy is seeking grants and federal funding to offset project costs in either scenario.
