MARION — Consumers Energy crews are responding to an equipment issue at a natural gas gate station in Marion on Wednesday. Approximately 500 customers in the Osceola County community may experience impacts to their service as a proactive safety measure.
The gate station serves as a facility where natural gas is received and prepared for distribution to local customers. Utility workers are currently onsite assessing the equipment to determine the cause of the issue and plan for any necessary repairs.
Trisha Bloembergen, a West Michigan media relations specialist for CMS Energy and Consumers Energy, confirmed that utility workers are monitoring the equipment. “Our crews are onsite assessing the situation and determining next steps,” Bloembergen said. “We will continue to share updates as more information becomes available.”
Consumers Energy issued safety instructions for residents who smell natural gas or suspect a leak. The utility noted that natural gas has a distinct odor similar to rotten eggs. If a leak is suspected, people are advised to leave the area immediately and move to a safe location outdoors in fresh air.
The company warned residents not to attempt to find the source of a leak or use any electric devices, including cellphones. Once at a safe location, residents should call 911 and then contact Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050.
Consumers Energy stated it will share updates as more information becomes available. Crews will remain at the Marion gate station while they determine the next steps for the equipment.