Consumers Energy Introduces New Iron Poles to Withstand Michigan's Severe Weather

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Consumers Energy is investing $3.5 million to purchase 1,200 iron utility poles that are designed to withstand Michigan's severe weather and improve the reliability of the electric grid. These iron poles are stronger, lighter, and more durable than traditional wooden poles and are expected to last approximately 80 years, double the lifespan of wooden poles. The investment is driven by recent shortages and increasing prices of wood. The implementation of iron poles is part of Consumers Energy's plan to modernize the grid and improve reliability for their customers.

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• Recent shortages and increasing prices of wood have led to the decision to invest in iron poles, indicating potential financial challenges related to the costs and availability of materials.

Over 1,000 Iron Poles to be Installed this Year

JACKSON, Mich., April 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Consumers Energy is introducing yet another new strategy to improve the reliability of the electric grid in Michigan. The energy provider has purchased 1,200 iron utility poles – a $3.5 million investment – to withstand the forces of mother nature and keep overhead power lines securely in place. 

These poles are stronger, lighter and longer lasting than their traditional wooden counterparts. They are engineered to resist fire and the effects of Michigan's harsh weather, and they are not vulnerable to wood decay, woodpeckers, insects or other wildlife.

Iron poles are expected to last upwards of 80 years, which is approximately double the lifespan of a wood pole. This longer lifecycle, combined with recent shortages and increasing prices of wood, led Consumers Energy to move ahead with sourcing and installing iron poles this year.

"These new iron poles will fortify our infrastructure, reducing the number of times that homes and businesses lose power," said Greg Salisbury, Consumers Energy's vice president of electric distribution engineering. "Their ability to withstand the elements will protect the power lines and help to reduce customer outages in the future." 

"Installing these initial iron poles is another meaningful step toward modernizing the grid and improving reliability for our customers," said Chris Laird, Consumers Energy's vice president of electric operations. "When the weather is good, you'll see our crews busy at work this year installing poles safely and quickly to make sure we're ready for storms." 

Consumers Energy is delivering the first iron poles to the Kalamazoo, Greenville, and Tawas areas. They will initially be installed at selected new construction sites that are accessible to bucket trucks, which are essential to reach and perform work on iron pole tops. Following this first phase of implementation, installations will expand to other areas and replace existing wooden poles throughout the Consumers Energy service territory. 

The introduction of iron poles is the latest tactic to be deployed as part of the Reliability Roadmap, Consumers Energy's plan for a smarter and stronger electric grid. The plan includes investments in smart technology and automation, forestry work, and infrastructure upgrades like this one. It is a blueprint for serving Michigan today while investing and innovating to meet the challenges of tomorrow. 

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 No. 1 is to keep the lights on for customers. We are committed to delivering reliable, clean, and affordable energy to our customers 24/7. 

For more information about Consumers Energy, go to ConsumersEnergy.com.

Check out Consumers Energy on Social Media 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/consumersenergymichigan
Twitter: https://twitter.com/consumersenergy
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/consumersenergy  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consumersenergy 

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SOURCE Consumers Energy

FAQ

How many iron poles are Consumers Energy planning to install this year?

Consumers Energy is introducing 1,200 iron utility poles this year.

Why is Consumers Energy opting for iron poles instead of wooden ones?

Consumers Energy is choosing iron poles due to their strength, lighter weight, and resistance to Michigan's harsh weather and natural decay.

What are the expected benefits of installing iron poles?

Iron poles are expected to improve the reliability of the electric grid, reduce customer outages, and have a longer lifecycle, approximately double that of wooden poles.

What areas will be the first to receive iron poles installation from Consumers Energy?

The Kalamazoo, Greenville, and Tawas areas will be the first to receive the installation of iron poles from Consumers Energy.

What is the purpose of the iron poles installation according to Consumers Energy?

The installation of iron poles is part of Consumers Energy's plan to modernize the grid and improve reliability for their customers.