Consumers Reports Record Energy Use This Summer - WLNS TV 6 Lansing - Jackson | Your Local News Leader

JACKSON, Mich. – Consumers Energy's 1.8 million electric customers used more energy this summer than at any time in the company's 125-year history. 

Michigan's rebounding economy and high temperatures drove customer power demand to several new all-time records.

During the 2012 peak load day, there were 62 percent fewer heat-related customer outages compared to the record peak load day in 2006, and 22 percent fewer heat-related outages compared to the record peak load day in 2011. 

"They set an all-time heat record on July 17th. For the month of Huly, they set a monthly record, and other records were also set. So we're finishing a very busy and productive summer for our customers and for us," said Dan Bishop, Consumers Spokesperson. "When electric sales are up, it's a good sign for the economy. It means that people are working. It means that people are making things. It's also a sign of weather as a factor, but overall there's about a one to one relationship between increased electric sales and economic growth."

With all the increased demand, a lot more work comes to make sure the systems can handle the energy load. Heat related outages were down 20 percent from last year.

"We're strengthening that system, or what we call hardening that system, to ensure our assets are available to serve our customers, especially on those very hot and cold days," said Bishop.

Although the growth is good for Consumers, officials say they're mostly glad to see another bright spot in Michigan's economy.