New Summer Electricity Rates Could Shock Michigan Customers

If you're a Consumers Energy customer, you might be in for a surprise when your next electricity bill arrives. A quiet change in how power is priced during summer months could lead to noticeably higher costs, especially if you're using energy at the wrong time of day.

What Is Consumers Energy’s Peak Pricing Program?

In Michigan, June means warmer weather, summer vacation for the kids, and higher energy rates. Beginning June 1, Consumers Energy deploys its 'Peak Pricing' program. Here's how it breaks down.

Consumers Energy electric customers pay more for the electricity they use weekdays from 2 to 7 p.m. during the summer months. The plan is in effect now until September 30, 2025.

• Peak Pricing Rate (weekdays 2 - 7 pm) $0.23/kWh
• Off-Peak Rate (all other times) $0.178/kWh

Consumers Energy's peak rate is approximately 1.3 times as much as its off-peak rate.

DTE Energy Also Has Summer Peak Rates

Michigan’s other major electricity provider, DTE Energy, also has a similar summer pricing program in effect from June 1 through September 30. However, DTE’s peak hours differ slightly—they apply on weekdays from 3 to 7 p.m.

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Tips to Save on Your Summer Electric Bill

There are several steps Michigan utility customers can take to keep the summer rate hikes from significantly impacting their bills:

• Avoid running the washer, dryer, and dishwasher during peak hours.
• Avoid using your air conditioner (or turn the temp up) during peak hours. You may be able to cool your home before 2 pm on weekdays in order for the system to run less during peak hours.
• Swap out any old incandescent light bulbs for energy-efficient LED bulbs.
• Clean or replace your furnace filter so your air conditioning system can function more efficiently.

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