Wednesday, Consumers Energy announced its intention to install 123 automatic transfer reclosers, or ATRs, in an effort to prevent power outages and enhance electric reliability.
According to Consumers Energy, ATRs are technologies that seek to isolate problems on electric lines and transfer power automatically to enhance public safety and reduce the number of customers affected by outages.
As of Wednesday, there were roughly 470 ATRs on Consumers Energy’s electric system, and the company’s 2023 ATR deployment plan will target outage-prone areas, according to company officials.
Power failures Over 1,000 Consumer Energy customers in Allegan County are without power.
“After the February ice storms, we are aware that consumers want a stronger and more intelligent electricity infrastructure. Chris Laird, vice president of electric operations for Consumers Energy, stated, “By focusing on tree trimming, upgrading our electric grid, and using automation and other technology to quickly detect and resolve problems, we can significantly improve the electric grid and make it more reliable for all of our customers.”
Consumers Energy allocates $15 million annually for ATRs, but continues to invest in the grid to enhance safety, prevent disruptions, and improve customer service, according to company representatives.
According to Consumers Energy, the majority of the 2023 ATRs are expected to be completed and operational this summer.
Residents of Mattawan petition the Michigan commission to suspend the Consumers Energy project.
In addition to ATRs, officials expect to make investments to prune trees, replace equipment, and upgrade critical equipment such as substations.
“The ATRs are indispensable when storms create disruptions,” Laird explained. They will play a significant role in our future reliability and in minimizing outages.