Consumers Energy and GeoForce Expand Pole Inspections 150% to Secure Michigan's Electric Grid and Reduce $9.6 Million in Costs for Customers

Groundline inspections resume this spring across service areas

JACKSON, Mich., April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Consumers Energy is expanding its proactive infrastructure inspection program to help secure Michigan's electric grid and deliver long-term cost savings for customers. Last year's efforts to replace poles as part of a work plan instead of during an emergency repair saved customers $9.6 million.

In 2026, Consumers Energy will significantly expand its inspection program by 150%, with plans to inspect more than 125,000 poles projected to result in nearly $24 million in additional cost-savings. This growth reflects the company's long-term commitment to securing the grid through proactive, cost-efficient maintenance rather than reactive, high-cost emergency work.

"We're proud of the meaningful progress we're making to help secure the grid across the communities we serve," said Chris Fultz, Consumers Energy's vice president of low voltage distribution. "We're fixing small problems before they turn into big ones. That means fewer power outages, fewer emergency repairs, and lower costs over time—so your service is more reliable and your money goes further."

In the second half of 2025, Consumers Energy inspected more than 50,000 utility poles, identifying 70 poles requiring immediate attention, 3,640 poles in need of near-term upgrades, and numerous preventative maintenance items that will further secure the grid. These early interventions also help avoid costly emergency repairs and unplanned interruptions to our customers' electric service.

To complete this work, Consumers Energy is working with GeoForce Utility Technologies, a professional pole inspection and treatment company serving energy providers nationwide. GeoForce crews conduct detailed groundline inspections designed to identify decay and weathering, especially at and below ground level, where deterioration is most likely to occur. By routinely treating and maintaining poles, the company extends the lifespan of existing infrastructure and avoids the higher costs associated with premature equipment failure.

"This is the kind of proactive work that keeps communities safer and customer costs lower," Jim Azzouz, Chief Operating Officer of GeoForce Utility Technologies. "Groundline inspections identify issues early, long before they turn into outages or expensive emergency repairs. It reflects very well on Consumers Energy to be leading this work with a scaled and data-driven program that strengthens system security and saves customers money over time."

Because many utility poles are located behind homes or on private property, customers may occasionally see GeoForce crews working in their neighborhood. All crews will be:

• Clearly identifiable with uniforms, credentials and marked vehicles including a certified Consumers Energy contractor decal
• Trained to respect private property and follow strict safety protocols
• Focused on completing work quickly and with minimal disruption

Residents who see inspection teams can be confident that this work directly contributes to a more secure, resilient, and cost-efficient electric system. One that reduces outage risk, limits storm damage, and helps control long-term energy costs.

Consumers Energy is Michigan's largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties. We are committed to delivering reliable and affordable energy to our customers 24/7.

Learn more at ConsumersEnergy.com.

SOURCE Consumers Energy