Expect Higher Heat Bills in Michigan This Winter

If you own a home here in Michigan, you may want to keep an eye on that gas bill this winter season. Consumers Energy is warning customers that their bills could be climbing starting November 1st.

The Michigan Public Service Commission signed off on a rate increase that works out to about $6.44 more on a typical monthly bill, which is roughly an 8.1% increase. Not great news, but a good time to get a plan going before you have to flip the heat on when it gets cold out.

What's With The Change?

Consumers say that the added revenue cost goes toward safety and reliability upgrades, which include replacing older pipelines, tightening leak prevention, and keeping up emergency response readiness when Michigan weather hits.

Regulators trimmed the company's original ask, but the approved amount still touches just about every household.

What Can You Do To Be Ready?

We're all going to complain, but there are a few things that you can do to prevent that bill from soaring. Start with the basics. Replace your furnace filter, seal drafty windows and doors.

You can also drop your water heater down a notch, close vents in rooms you don't use often, and use foam gaskets on exterior outlets.

How To Better Budget Your Money

If you are finding money tighter than in previous years, you could consider a Budget Plan to smooth payments. If things are tight, you can also call 2-1-1 to connect and see if you can find assistance plans and income-based help.

You can also do a free or low-cost home energy assessment that can point out quick wins you may not find yourself.