The Trump administration has again ordered Consumers Energy’s J.H. Campbell coal plant in West Olive, Michigan, to remain open for another 90 days, despite plans to close the facility on May 31 and mounting opposition from environmental groups and state officials.
The U.S. Department of Energy first issued an emergency order in May, citing a risk to grid reliability, even though the Midcontinent Independent System Operator said it had adequate resources.
The extension has already cost ratepayers nearly $1 million per day—$29 million in the first five weeks alone, according to the Sierra Club. Estimates suggest the annual cost could reach $200 million, with customers in Michigan and 10 other states expected to pay through higher utility bills.
Environmental groups, including Sierra Club and the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, have called the order “illegal” and “reckless,” pointing to Consumers Energy’s projection that closing the coal plant would save Michigan ratepayers $600 million by 2040. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has filed suit, arguing the administration’s actions are arbitrary and unfairly burden households.
Residents near the plant, which has been one of Michigan’s largest greenhouse gas emitters since the 1960s, expressed shock at the administration’s intervention. “Why are they inserting themselves into a decision a company has made? Just because politically you don’t like it?” said Port Sheldon resident Mark Oppenhuizen, quoted in The Guardian.
The Campbell plant’s fate underscores the broader national debate over Trump’s use of emergency powers to prolong fossil fuel operations. Analysts warn the precedent could extend to other plants slated for retirement, potentially costing U.S. ratepayers billions each year.
learn more
West Michigan coal power plant gets lifeline from Trump administration
Environmental advocates and clean energy proponents are voicing strong opposition as the Trump administration orders the J.H. Campbell coal plant in Michigan to remain operational through August, overriding a planned shutdown and raising concerns about grid reliability and public health impacts.
Can Trump’s order to keep a Michigan coal plant open be stopped?
Environmental advocates say Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel could petition to stop the order. A Republican lawmaker suggests DTE’s Monroe plant should also stay online.
