Michigan’s Electric Grid Struggles with Reliability
In 2024, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) performed a third-party audit on DTE Electric and Consumers Energy, the state’s two largest utility groups. Their research supports the idea that these companies have serious reliability issues, with frequent and long-lasting outages increasingly frustrating customers across the state.
While some improvements occurred—such as DTE reducing their outage time by 70%—aging infrastructure and Michigan’s problematic weather continue to challenge the reliability of electric services.
Environmental and Infrastructure Concerns
Aside from reliability, Michigan’s electric grid is a large source of the state’s pollution. Michigan ranks among the worst when it comes to emissions, primarily sulfur dioxide. These emissions from Consumers and DTE power plants significantly impact air quality and public health. (CUB of Michigan)
Michigan’s variable weather also strains the grid, forcing reliance on inefficient and emissions-heavy backup power sources.
Propane Works for Michigan
In rural Michigan, electric infrastructure and reliability are strained even further. Yet, propane offers the energy solution sought after.
Electricity relies on a centralized grid, which is prone to failure, whereas propane is stored on-site, ensuring reliable heating and power when electricity is inoperable. Meanwhile, propane is a clean-burning, low-emission fuel, producing 43% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than electricity used for residential heating.
Propane-powered appliances and backup generators operate separately from the grid, providing dependability for homes, farms, and businesses—especially in rural areas.
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center adds that propane’s high energy efficiency reduces overall usage, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to electric heating. (AFDC)
With Michigan’s grid facing mounting challenges, propane heating and backup power solutions offer energy security, reliability, and a cleaner alternative—especially for Michigan’s rural communities.
