Natural gas usage dropped 10 percent after Consumers Energy issued a plea for Michigan customers to turn their thermostats down to 65 degrees. The reduction was enough to avoid the threat of heat interruptions according to Consumers executives. The plea came after the combination of record cold temperatures and a fire at Consumers largest natural gas storage and delivery facility caused a shortage. As well as individuals turning down their heat, 79 companies across the state worked with Consumers to reduce their usage. The utility says you may turn your thermostat back up beginning at midnight Thursday night.
