ETR stands for Estimated Time of Restoration. When your power goes out, you naturally want to know when it will come back on. So, we provide you with an ETR based on the best information we have at the time. Our system generates an initial ETR based on a number of factors including historical data and weather patterns and may update throughout the outage.
Estimated Time of Restoration
Learn what goes into the Consumers Energy estimated times of restoration, what you can expect during an outage, and get answers to your questions.
What is an ETR?
Average Restoration Times
Storm Outages
How ETRs Are Found
The first estimated time of restoration (ETR) is found by crews who look at damage and see how many customers are without power. New ETRs are sent as more information is found.
Average ETR Time
Around 24 hours
Other Outages
How ETRs Are Found
For power loss that is not storm related, ETRs are based on old data records of similar events. As crews gather more information, updated ETRs will be sent.
Average ETR Time
Around 2-6 hours
Based on average restoration times for events impacting ~50,000 customers
How We Restore Power
We take storm restoration seriously. Our employees train every day to make sure when an outage happens, we’re ready to restore your power as quickly as possible. To report a downed wire, call us at 800-477-5050.
Frequently Asked Questions About ETR
How do you figure out my ETR?
During normal times, our system automatically creates an ETR. The ETR is based on average restoration times. After our crews are on the scene and finds needed repairs in person, the ETR may be updated.
During a storm or larger event, our team creates broader ETRs by area. After our crews get to the scene and looks at damage and needed repairs, they may send out an updated ETR.
Why does my ETR change so often?
In any outage, we give you the best information we have about when your power will come back. Normally your first ETR is sent within minutes of the outage by our system. These first ETRs are based on average repair times, without any knowledge of what caused the outage. When our crews are at the scene, they are able to see the damage and needed repairs in person, and then may provide an updated ETR.
Every power outage is unique, and some present unexpected challenges which make it necessary to change your ETR a few times. We are sorry for any frustration this causes. We are always working to improve the accuracy of our ETRs.
Why did I get an ETR after my power came back?
With multiple opportunities for crews in the field and the system to update your ETR, come possibilities for error. We are always working on improving the quality and frequency of our ETRs. We're sorry if you got an ETR in error.
Get Information on a Current Outage
To report an outage or check the status of a current outage, visit our Outage Center.
Visit Outage Center