Consumers Energy Tops Annual Goal Early, Invests $1B with Michigan Companies

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Consumers Energy today announced it has invested more than $1 billion in less than a year with Michigan-based companies. The utility announced last year it was committed to spending $5 billion with businesses in the state over the next five years.

“By investing in our home state of Michigan, we are helping businesses grow,” says Dan Malone, senior vice president of energy resources at Jackson-based Consumers Energy. “That leads to our state being a better place to work and raise a family. We are following through on our word and are even ahead of schedule, putting our dollars into Michigan businesses and creating jobs.”

Malone says Consumers invested with nearly 3,000 businesses in more than 70 state counties since last June. He says the company also actively encourages its Michigan-based suppliers to use sub-contractors and suppliers based in the state.

The utility is a member of Pure Michigan Business Connect, a public-private alliance of Michigan Economic Development Corp., state agencies, and large employers in the state. As part of that commitment, the energy provider increased its spending with Michigan employers by $1 billion from 2011 to 2015, reaching its goal a year ahead of schedule.

Consumers Energy has spent money with Chesterfield Township-based Aaron’s Fabrication, Auburn Hills-based Shelving Inc., and Muskegon-based Newkirk Electric, among other companies.

Last week, the utility announced it is investing $225 million in essential natural gas infrastructure expansions and upgrades in the state to accommodate the growth of new businesses and residential customers.

Consumers Energy provides natural gas and electricity to 6.7 million Michigan residents.