COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – Consumers Energy customers in Michigan face higher electricity bills starting today, as Summer Peak Rates take effect through September 30.
During weekdays from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., rates will increase by 50%. This seasonal change follows a recent state-approved $276.6 million base rate hike, impacting roughly 1.9 million customers.
While Consumers cites grid reliability for the shift, consumer advocates and state officials have criticized the rising costs, noting nearly $800 million in approved revenue increases since 2020.
Those financial pressure may rise further, as Consumers Energy is eligible to file for another rate increase as early as tomorrow June 2.
In Coldwater, where electricity coverage is split between providers, the financial impact depends heavily on a resident’s address.
While the roughly 56% of Coldwater households using Consumers Energy will absorb these heavy peak-hour premiums, the remaining 44% serviced by the Coldwater Board of Public Utilities (CBPU) will bypass the seasonal spike entirely.
The city-owned utility historically keeps its power rates 30% below major private corporations and avoided adding any new electrical premiums for this summer window.
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