GRAND HAVEN, Mich. — A federal order from the Trump administration forcing Consumers Energy to keep its J.H. Campbell coal plant operating on Lake Michigan has cost more than $80 million since May, the company confirmed this week.
In its third-quarter earnings report, Consumers said the daily cost of running the aging plant totals $615,000 and will seek reimbursement from ratepayers across nine Midwestern states through the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO). CEO Garrick Rochow said the expenses “should be shared” regionally, as the benefits “go to MISO, not just our customers.”
Energy Secretary Chris Wright issued two emergency orders extending the plant’s life, citing national grid reliability and “energy security.” Critics argue the 63-year-old plant is unnecessary, with the grid maintaining a surplus of capacity even during peak summer demand. Environmental groups, joined by Michigan, Minnesota, and Illinois, have petitioned the D.C. Circuit Court to overturn the order, calling it unlawful and wasteful.
The Campbell plant emitted 6.6 million metric tons of carbon in 2023. Consumers Energy had planned to close it this year, projecting long-term customer savings of $600 million.
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