We’re reducing methane emissions from our natural gas system. This is an important step to neutralize the impact of greenhouse gases—which are more potent than carbon dioxide—from our operations by the end of the decade. From advanced methane detection systems to carbon offset programs, we're committed to driving progress toward a reliable and equitable energy future.
Natural Gas Operations
Our natural gas storage fields are a unique asset that helps ensure reliable and affordable natural gas service. Constant vigilance also plays a big role. Learn more.
We Are Delivering for Michigan
To meet our state’s energy needs we're modernizing our system. Our Natural Gas Delivery Plan is a 10-year road map to a system that’s even more safe, reliable, affordable and clean.
See Natural Gas Delivery PlanPipeline Projects
From infrastructure replacements to facility upgrades and system expansions, we're always making improvements to our 30,000-mile natural gas network. It’s all to make sure you have the most reliable and safe service possible.
Four Cities Metro Pipeline
Replacing over 8 miles of natural gas pipeline in Royal Oak, Madison Heights, Clawson and Warren
See a Map Timeline & More See a Map Timeline & MoreWhat to Do if You Smell Gas
1: Leave the Area Right Away
If you smell a rotten egg smell, leave without using electronics, even your cell phone.
2: Call 9-1-1
When you are in a safe place, call 9-1-1 first. Tell them the situation, your address, and where you are.
3: Call Us at 800-477-5050
Call Consumers Energy after you have called 9-1-1.Information and Statistics
How We Bring Natural Gas to You
From the Well to Your Home
Most of the natural gas we use comes from outside Michigan. It’s a long trek from the well to your home, with many stops along the way. Odor is added to help detect the unlikely event of a leak.
1
We Shop
We shop for natural gas in and outside of Michigan.
2
We Ship
Natural gas travels to Michigan through a network of pipelines before arriving at a storage field or city gate.
3
We Store
We store natural gas in underground porous rock formations to help keep energy costs stable, even during the winter.
4
We Prepare
On its way to your home, natural gas passes through a city gate, where pressure is adjusted and a rotten egg odor is added to help detect leaks.
5
We Deliver
Finally, natural gas travels through distribution and service lines to your meter before delivering gas to your home.
Storage is the Secret to Affordability
To help keep natural gas affordable in Michigan, we use a simple strategy:
- We buy natural gas in the summer when prices are typically lowest and store it.
- The natural gas is kept in 14 storage fields across Michigan.
- Stored gas helps keep service reliable and costs affordable during the times you need it most.
- On average, we’re paying 60% less for natural gas than a decade ago. That means you’re paying less too.
Ensuring Reliable Gas Delivery
We’re one of the nation’s largest natural gas distribution companies, operating more than 28,000 miles of pipelines. To ensure you have the safest, most efficient natural gas service, we continuously make improvements and upgrades to our system. We’re spending about $1 billion in improvements over the next few years to make sure you get the most out of your energy dollar.
Natural Gas by the Numbers
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4.1 Million Over 4 million Michiganders in 45 counties rely on our natural gas service.
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396 Billion Delivered Every year we deliver nearly 400 billion cubic feet of natural gas.
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151 Billion Cubic Feet We own 14 underground gas storage fields that are capable of storing 151 billion cubic feet of natural gas. That’s 45% of our natural gas customers need to get through winter.
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2,000 team members are dedicated to natural gas service.
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2,500 Miles We have nearly 2,500 miles of transmission pipeline.
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28,000 Miles We have 28,000 miles of natural gas distribution pipeline.
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