Hundreds of crews are continuing an around-the-clock push to repair – and in some areas, rebuild – the electric grid in hard-hit northern Michigan counties, which are expected to see power restored by Saturday morning.

As Consumers Energy wraps up restoration work for its customers, the energy provider will work with the State Emergency Operations Center to gradually shift contracted line crews, damage assessment teams and available materials to neighboring northern Michigan utilities to support their restoration efforts.

“Damage caused by this week’s storms was no less than catastrophic across the state, and especially in northern Michigan,” said Norm Kapala, one of Consumers Energy’s Officers in Charge of restoration. “We thank our customers for their patience, perseverance and understanding as we complete final restoration. Because we count all of Michigan among our friends and neighbors, we also look forward to helping other northern Michigan utilities restore their customers’ power. We’re all in this together.”

The spirit of togetherness was felt by Zack Mat, a Consumers Energy tree trimmer in northern Michigan working alongside crews to help clear paths for restoration.

“The destruction left from this storm has put thousands of our neighbors in distress. I just want them to know, we are out here. We are thinking about you. Line crews and tree companies are working side by side to restore power to our great northern Michigan community. Stay strong. Stay hopeful. Stay together. We are Michiganders,” Mat said.

Consumers Energy’s work to inform and support northern Michigan residents and communities included providing water to seven community shelters in northern Michigan and hosting a food truck at the Gaylord community shelter that served more than 420 customers. Consumers Energy also conducted several community storm briefings to keep local and state elected officials, and first responders informed about restoration work.