The Classic Seven, which together generated 1,000 megawatts (MW), include B.C. Cobb 4 and 5 in Muskegon (320 MW); J.C. Weadock 7 and 8 in Hampton Township, Bay County (310 MW); and J.R. Whiting 1, 2 and 3 in Luna Pier (328 MW).
“These plants have a long track record of running safely, productively and efficiently. In fact, Whiting’s Unit 3 recently set a company record by operating continuously for 679 consecutive days, the sixth longest run for a U.S. power plant,” said Dan Malone, senior vice president of energy resources, Consumers Energy.
He noted the company is working to accommodate the placement of interested employees at other Consumers Energy sites. Following the closure, five coal plants will remain in its portfolio.
The closure of the Classic Seven reduces the company’s carbon footprint by 25% and reduces its air emissions by 40%, according to company data. It will also see a 40% reduction in its water use.
“With two-thirds of our coal fleet shutting down, seven out of 12 coal plants, now is the time for Lansing policymakers to update Michigan’s energy law and ensure customers have reliable, affordable and sustainable power going forward,” said Malone.
