JACKSON, Mich., August 18, 2017 – As Michigan gets ready for a once-in-a-generation solar eclipse on Monday, Aug. 21, Consumers Energy wanted to share information about the event and solar energy in our state!

We’re Ready  The eclipse should block part of the sun over three hours on Monday afternoon, but it shouldn’t interrupt the energy Consumers Energy provides to 1.8 million Michigan homes and businesses. Even if our solar power plants aren’t operating fully during the eclipse, we still have reliable sources of energy to power homes and businesses.

Solar Has a Bright Future

 Consumers Energy operates two solar power plants that opened in 2016, at Grand Valley State University (pictured here) and Western Michigan University. Together, they generate 4 megawatts of electricity, enough to power 800 homes.

 They started these plants as part of Solar Gardens, our growing community solar program, in which customers support the development of new solar energy projects. Learn more: www.ConsumersEnergy.com/solargardens.

 This spring, Consumers Energy also started a rooftop solar program for households. Customers can put solar panels on the rooftops of their homes, working with industry-leading solar provider SunPower. Learn more: www.ConsumersEnergy.com/solarpilot.

As Always, Be Safe!

 Consumers Energy always puts safety first. We know others are offering safety tips for Monday’s eclipse, but we want to emphasize a couple of points:

 Never look at a partial solar eclipse without proper eye protection. Looking directly at the sun – even when it is partially covered by the moon – can cause serious eye damage or blindness.

 NASA predicts Monday will be a busy travel day. About 25 million people reside within a day’s drive of the path of totality. If you’re traveling, have your vehicle serviced prior to leaving; pack an emergency kit and extra food, water and blankets; and plan your route and have a backup.

Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest utility, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and electricity to 6.7 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

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For more information about Consumers Energy, go to www.ConsumersEnergy.com.