Consumers Energy customers preparing for scheduled power outages | Local

HEMLOCK, Mich. (WJRT) – A scheduled power interruption is set to take place this weekend for residents in Byron, Hemlock and Davison as Consumers Energy updates its grid and security systems to prepare for Michigan severe weather events.

Consumers said they aim to do upgrades this time of year to lessen the impact customers could feel.

For Hemlock resident Diane Raths, any time the power goes out could be trouble. Raths received a postcard in the mail notifying her of the scheduled interruption.

“I have severe obstructive sleep apnea,” said Raths. “So, I rely on a C-PAP.”

Raths is one of the residents in three counties affected by scheduled power interruptions in the Mid-Michigan area this weekend. She says the power is something she relies on.

“Because my sleep apnea is so severe, it’s a horrible night if I don’t have that C-PAP,” Raths said.

Consumers Energy Vice President of low voltage distribution, Chris Fultz, says he considers factors like this when turning off the grid for updates. He says the outages are scheduled during what are called “shoulder months” — the period in between the hottest days of summer and the coolest of winter.

“We say, ‘okay when can we do it to have the least impact on our homes and businesses?’ And that would be in this case overnight,” Fultz said.

He admits that even despite working overnight, not all effects can be fully reduced.

Raths has taken proper precautions, using a camping charging bank for the night.

“It’s not a big deal for me, but for others, they may need to do some pre-planning to get ready for that,” Raths said.

Fultz says Consumers Energy can assist with pre-planning.

“We will look at our customers, and we know what customers have told us they have sensitive devices,” said Fultz. “In that case, we can proactively reach out to them.”

He suggests reaching out to Consumers to get advanced alerts for those who need them most.