Consumers Energy Expands Options for Customers Interested in Installing Renewable Energy Generators

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Aug 16, 2011, 06:30 ET

JACKSON, Mich., Aug. 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Consumers Energy is expanding options for customers interested in developing their own renewable energy sources.

The utility is significantly increasing its Experimental Advanced Renewable Program. That program provides for the long-term purchase of renewable energy generated by solar energy systems owned by the Company's electric customers.

The program is adding an additional 3 megawatts following recent approval by the Michigan Public Service Commission. The original phases of the program are now completed and added 2 megawatts of solar panels on roofs and yards across Michigan.

"We're pleased to offer this opportunity to our customers and look forward to cost-effective innovation in advancing solar technology in Michigan," said David Ronk, Consumers Energy's director of transactions and resource planning. "The additional solar generation through this expansion will add to Consumers Energy's renewable energy portfolio."

Customer installations under this program were recently completed at 102 locations throughout Michigan's Lower Peninsula.

Customer applications for the new expanded phase of the program will be accepted near the end of August. More information on the Experimental Advanced Renewable Program is available at: www.consumersenergy.com/EARP.

Consumers Energy, the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), provides natural gas and electricity to 6.8 million of Michigan's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

For more information about Consumers Energy, visit our Website at www.consumersenergy.com

SOURCE Consumers Energy