Consumers Energy announces two new mobile command centers in Michigan

Consumers Energy announced two new mobile command centers for its emergency response team in Michigan on Monday to enable emergency responders to have access to important information during blackouts through backup internet and communications infrastructure.

The command centers stand 30 feet tall and are equipped with a diverse array of communications equipment, including backup satellite internet, laptop-ready work stations, a plotter for printing, a conference table and an 800 megahertz radio infrastructure. The centers are currently located in Jackson and Clinton Township, but can be deployed to any town as needed.

“We developed the mobile command centers to be versatile to support our diverse electric and natural gas operations,” Annette Gardiner, Consumers Energy’s vice president of shared services, said. “These vehicles are conference rooms on wheels, where leaders can be with crews in the field with the resources needed to resolve emergencies safely and efficiently. Working together for safer communities. That’s our Promise to Michigan, a promise we take to heart.”

The centers will reduce the amount of time it takes workers to execute restoration work following a severe storm. The centers also provide training to utility crews from out of state.