December 1, 2006

Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester officially welcomed Consumers Energy's BC Cobb Electric Generating Complex to Michigan's Clean Corporate Citizen (C3) Program today, becoming the 140th member of the voluntary program recognizing environmental stewardship across the state.

"The BC Cobb site is now Consumers Energy's fourth coal-fired power plant to join the C3 program," said Director Chester. "This demonstrates the company's on-going commitment to environmental stewardship, and the dedication of the staff at BC Cobb who work to implement these ideas."

"The Cobb Plant has been playing a vital role in the Muskegon community for 50 years," said Bob Malec, BC Cobb Plant Manager. "We continue to be innovative in our approach to business and recognize that a strong environmental stewardship program is an essential element of our overall success."

The BC Cobb Plant is located on 300 acres at the mouth of the Muskegon River in west Michigan. The facility has been recognized by the Wildlife Habitat Council for their commitment to environmental stewardship and increasing native biodiversity in the marsh, river delta, field, and woodland areas that surround this electric generating complex. The site received further recognition by the Michigan Association of Environmental Professionals for closure of an existing 62-acre coal fly ash landfill. The innovative solution included installation of a 70-foot deep clay retaining wall around the perimeter of the landfill and a synthetic cover on top to keep stormwater and ash from migrating into nearby waters of the state. The large open area constructed as a result of the project is being considered for public recreational use. In addition, they designed an ash pond series-flow treatment system which has proven to work well while providing habitat for waterfowl.

The plant burns approximately 1 million tons of blended eastern and low-sulfur western. Active programs are in place to reduce used-oil waste, reduce solvent use, reduce the use of chemical additives in condenser and non-contact cooling water, and to reduce thermal emissions in discharge waters, in addition to several other ongoing environmental initiatives.

To qualify for a Clean Corporate Citizen designation, candidates must adopt a facility-specific environmental management system and active pollution prevention initiatives, and have a consistent record of compliance with applicable environmental requirements. Clean Corporate Citizens are eligible for certain regulatory benefits under the state's environmental programs, including expedited permit approval. The program is open to any Michigan public or private business, educational institution, medical facility, or governmental agency. Designations must be renewed regularly.

Editor's note: DEQ news releases are available on the department's Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

"Protecting Michigan's Environment, Ensuring Michigan's Future"

Revised December 1, 2006 by Pat Watson