Michigan utility company pledges 1,500 vehicle chargers by 2030

Consumers Energy, the largest Michigan utility company, made a commitment Monday to install 1,500 public electric vehicle chargers by 2030 across the state.

The decision would make transportation history yet again in the home of the automobile.

Consumer’s goal, as a part of the new Transportation Electrification Plan, would nearly double the number of publicly accessible electric charging stations in the state. The plan builds on DTE Energy’s goal to create 620 public fast chargers by 2028.

“We know electric vehicles are good for the planet and they’re a good experience for drivers,” Consumers Vice President of Customer Experience Lauren Snyder said. “We also know we’re taking the right steps to speed up Michigan’s EV transformation in a way that helps the grid and lowers costs for everyone. Whether you drive an EV or not, you come out ahead.”

To support 2 million electric vehicles on the road, as a part of the state’s plan, Michiganders will need at least 100,000 public chargers. This puts energy companies and the government far behind its 2030 goal.

While a $110 million federal program will help pay, each charging plug costs $134,000. That money would only cover 800 plug points statewide.

Rebate programs with both Consumers and DTE hope to assist customers with getting their own home and business charging stations.