Jackson, Mich. (WKHM, Marc W. Daly) — Michigan’s largest natural gas provider, Consumers Energy, is seeking a $248 million rate hike, a move that has raised concerns among consumer advocates. The company filed its request Monday, less than five months after resolving its previous rate increase.

If approved in full, residential bills could rise by about 12%, though the increase will likely face challenges from environmental groups, consumer advocates, and businesses. A final decision is expected by the summer of 2025, with new rates potentially taking effect late next year.

Consumers says the hike will support modernization projects aimed at improving safety, reliability, and environmental performance. The utility plans to replace aging pipelines, reduce methane emissions, and enhance emergency response capabilities.

Critics, however, question the scale of the request and its alignment with Michigan’s goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Consumer watchdogs argue the investment could lock in infrastructure that may become obsolete as the state moves toward net-zero emissions by 2050.

Regulators will review the proposal, with public input and legal challenges playing a key role in the decision. Michigan’s attorney general has already pledged to advocate for ratepayers during the process.