Consumers Energy Hydroelectric Dams Sale and Water Quality Issues

planned

Consumers Energy Co. plans to sell its 13 hydroelectric dams to Confluence Hydro, a Maryland private equity company. Six of these dams have water quality problems due to warm water downstream, violating federal standards. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy may not issue water quality certifications for relicensing if issues persist. The dams' current licenses expire between 2034 and 2041, and relicensing is a lengthy process. The sale is under review by the Michigan Public Service Commission, with environmental groups and state agencies involved. There are concerns about the costs and plans for dam decommissioning and removal.