Graphs illustrating Consumers Energy’s planned reductions in coal generation and carbon emissions. Courtesy Consumers Energy.
Consumers Energy this week announced a goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040, the next step in the company’s Clean Energy Plan. The Clean Energy Plan, filed under Michigan’s Integrated Resource Plan law, details Consumers Energy’s proposed strategy to meet customers’ long-term energy needs while protecting the planet.
“Consumers Energy is proud to take a stand for Michigan and for the planet. We are committed to take actions that eliminate our carbon footprint and do our part to combat climate change,” said Patti Poppe, Consumers Energy’s president and chief executive officer. “Our Clean Energy Plan already is focused on protecting the planet, and our net zero pledge takes that commitment to the next level.”
Consumers Energy introduced the Clean Energy Plan in 2019 as a road map to meet Michigan’s energy needs through 2040. The energy provider committed to reduce 90 percent of the carbon emissions it generates by eliminating the use of coal and working with customers to use energy more efficiently. Consumers Energy expects to avoid the need to build three new power plants with customers’ help.
The new net zero goal means Consumers Energy will eliminate the impact of carbon emissions created by the electricity it generates or purchases for customers.
“We don’t have all the answers yet, but our Clean Energy Plan is a great start,” Poppe said. “We have the know-how and the time to continue innovating and creating to solve this problem.”
Consumers Energy plans to eliminate coal, boost renewable fuel sources and help customers reduce energy use and waste.
The company also may offset further emissions through strategies such as carbon sequestration, landfill methane capture or large-scale tree planting. And it will continue to explore new technology and policy solutions to reach the net zero goal.
“We often say that no one can do everything, but everyone can do something,” Poppe said. “Consumers Energy is proud to do our part to protect the planet with our new goal, and we look forward to working with Michigan residents to help them understand and do their part so we can accomplish great things together.”
Consumers Energy is planning a series of open houses around the state this spring to gather input. Each open house will be scheduled from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., with brief presentations every 30 minutes. The company will have members of their team available for questions, listen to suggestions and provide details on how customers can participate in the Clean Energy Plan.
In Jackson, the Clean Energy Plan Open House will be held on March 23 at the Jackson Symphony Orchestra Weatherwax Hall, 215 West Michigan Avenue, in Downtown Jackson.
Learn more about Consumers Energy’s Clean Energy Plan at MICleanEnergy.com.