• The B.C. Cobb Generating Plant in Muskegon

MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - Consumers Electric is closing seven of its coal-fired energy plants. The closed plants, which are located at the B.C. Cobb, J.C. Weadock, and J.R. Whiting Generating Plants, have been collectively known as the Classic Seven and have been in operation for over 60 years. The company still retain five other coal plants.

Consumers Energy feels that closing the Classic Seven is an important step in its commitment to pursuing clean energy. The company has one of the most aggressive green-energy initiatives in the country, pursuing wind, solar, and hydro.

“While we honor the 60 years of service by the Classic Seven, Michigan will now become a little greener with improvements in air quality and reduced water usage." - David Mengebier, the company’s senior vice president of governmental and regulatory affairs.

The closures are expected to actually decrease electric rates by $38 million. Customers of the company will see a decrease of 1% in their electric bills. Consumers Energy's rates are already 15% lower than the national average, an increase from 12% in 2014.