Consumers Energy in Jackson says it’s upgrading its statewide natural gas system this summer, with crews replacing 149 miles of existing pipeline across Michigan communities.
The ongoing construction work is superseding existing cast iron and steel pipelines, some of which are around a century old. More than 600 Consumers Energy employees and contractors are performing the work. No cost of the project was provided.
“We work throughout the year to make sure we safely, affordably and reliably serve the 1.8 million homes and businesses that count on us,” says LeeRoy Wells, president of natural gas delivery at Consumers Energy. “These upgrades are an investment in securing our system, (and) serving our customers this year and for years to come.”
Consumers Energy is carrying out a majority of the work in these communities:
Southeast Michigan – 14 miles in Livonia, 14 miles in Mount Clemens, 10 miles in Warren, 7 miles in Pontiac, 6 miles in Bloomfield, and 6 miles in Troy.
Bay Region – 18 miles in Saginaw, 12 miles in Lapeer, 12 miles in Owosso, 8 miles in Bay City.
Kalamazoo – 14 miles.
Lansing – 12 miles.
Alma – 11 miles.
Consumers Energy says it’s also continuing to make progress on its Four Cities Metro Pipeline in Oakland and Macomb counties, a replacement of a major regional pipeline that will continue through this decade.
The utility is performing the work as part of its Natural Gas Delivery Plan, ensuring its system remains safe while costing the typical household about $3 a day, according to Consumers Energy.
Wells also encourages the public to be safe when carrying out their own projects that involve digging underground.
“If you are doing the work yourself, call 8-1-1 or go to missdig811.org to locate your public underground utilities,” he says. “If you’re hiring it out, make sure your contractor contacts MISS DIG to ensure the utilities on your property are clearly marked to avoid damaging them.”
For more information, visit consumersenergy.com.
