JACKSON,
Mich., Jan. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- With
frigid cold draped across Michigan
this week, Consumers Energy is highlighting programs, dollars and
ways to help Michiganders lower and get help with their energy
bills.
Lauren Snyder, Consumers Energy's
vice president of customer experience, said Consumers Energy is
continuing to look out for customers even after restoring power
across the state over the weekend.
"Natural gas costs less than half as much as it did last year.
Still, Consumers Energy is looking out for our friends and
neighbors, to be sure they stay safe and comfortable in their homes
as temperatures have plunged below zero," Snyder said. "You should
know you can take action to reduce your energy bill, and you can
find help by reaching out with just a phone call."
Snyder shared these tips to reduce energy waste. Learn more at
ConsumersEnergy.com/coldweather.
- Have your heating system tuned and inspected by a service
professional. Heat losses from a poorly maintained system can range
between 1-2 percent a year.
- Clean or replace your furnace filter often during the heating
season. If your furnace can "breathe" more easily, it will use less
energy.
- Dial your thermostat down at night and add an extra blanket for
warmth. Adjusting your home's temperature by even 1 degree can
lower your heating bill by 1 to 3 percent.
- Make sure your attic, basement, garage and exterior doors are
closed to prevent cold drafts from getting in and heat from getting
out.
- Schedule a Consumers Energy home energy analysis. The free
analysis offers ways you can take action to save energy at
home.
Snyder also encouraged people who need help to contact 2-1-1.
The free service connects Michiganders with nonprofits to find help
with basic needs, from energy bills to food and shelter. Visit
ConsumersEnergy.com/assistance to learn more.
Other sources of help:
- Apply for State Emergency Relief (SER)
at michigan.gov/mibridges.
- Contact Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050 to make payment
arrangements.
- Apply for a Home Heating Credit at michigan.gov/treasury.
"We know that asking for help can feel intimidating, but it's
vital for people to understand assistance is available right here
in our communities, regardless of the situation," Snyder said.
"We'll know we're making a difference this winter when everyone
finds the helping hand to get them through challenges."
Consumers Energy, Michigan's
largest energy provider, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy
(NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.7
million of the state's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower
Peninsula counties.
For more information about Consumers Energy, go to
ConsumersEnergy.com.
Check out Consumers Energy on Social
Media
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/consumersenergymichigan
Twitter: https://twitter.com/consumersenergy
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/consumersenergy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consumersenergy
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SOURCE Consumers Energy