"Michigan's Hydroelectric Dams Under Consideration for Sale by Consumers Energy"

Consumers Energy, a Michigan utility, is exploring the possible sale of its 13 hydroelectric dams as it evaluates their future and cost efficiency. The utility is considering all options to maintain the dam reservoirs, which provide economic and recreational opportunities for communities. The current financing model for hydroelectric power operations requires customers to pay more than nine times the cost of energy compared to other sources of generation. The licenses for the dams begin to expire in 11 years, and they currently produce less than 1% of the energy used by Consumers Energy's customers. The utility aims to rely on natural gas and renewable energy sources, including 8,000 megawatts of solar power, to reduce carbon emissions and generate clean energy.