Federal Emergency Order Keeps Michigan Coal Plant Open Amid Grid Shortfall

The U.S. Department of Energy, under the Trump administration, has issued a 90-day emergency order to keep Consumers Energy's J.H. Campbell coal plant in Ottawa County, Michigan, operational despite its planned closure at the end of May. This move aims to address potential electricity supply shortfalls and grid reliability concerns during the high-demand summer months, citing assessments from the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) and the North American Electric Reliability Corporation. The J.H. Campbell plant, with a capacity of approximately 1,450 to 1,560 megawatts, supplies power to about a million residents, making its continued operation critical to regional grid stability. Consumers Energy has expressed its intent to comply with the order while evaluating its overall impact. The decision conflicts with Michigan's clean energy goals and Consumers' plan to eliminate coal use by 2025, which was expected to reduce emissions and save customers money. Energy Secretary Chris Wright emphasized the administration's commitment to preventing energy shortages and maintaining affordable, reliable power regardless of renewable energy availability.