State Investigates Consumers Energy for Malfunctioning Meters and Overbilling Concerns

The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) is investigating Consumers Energy following complaints from customers about malfunctioning natural gas meters, potential overbilling due to estimated meter readings, and delays in new service installations. The MPSC received numerous complaints about malfunctioning meters that were not displaying electricity usage, as well as abnormally high bills due to estimated readings. The commission also noted that Consumers Energy failed to meet Service Quality and Reliability Standards requirements for new service installations. MPSC staff found that the company had been aware of meter malfunctions since 2020 but did not disclose the issue during a waiver request. The MPSC has ordered Consumers Energy to provide explanations and data related to these issues.