Consumers Energy - St. Clair Compressor Station: Natural Gas Pipeline Infrastructure in Ira Township, Michigan

Consumers Energy - St. Clair Compressor Station is a natural gas pipeline facility located in Ira Township, St. Clair County, Michigan. It operates as part of the broader natural gas transmission network serving the region, with a focus on maintaining pressure and flow for reliable gas delivery. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with 49 CFR Part 192 for gas pipeline safety. As a compressor station, it plays a critical role in maintaining pipeline pressure over long distances, ensuring efficient transport of natural gas from supply sources to distribution systems. This compressor station supports the energy needs of communities in southeastern Michigan, contributing to grid reliability and seasonal demand management. Its location near the St. Clair River and Lake St. Clair underscores the importance of environmental monitoring and spill prevention measures typical of pipeline infrastructure in sensitive waterway areas.

The facility is situated in a region with proximity to the St. Clair River and Lake St. Clair, which are important freshwater resources. Pipeline compressor stations in such areas require robust spill prevention and cathodic protection systems to mitigate risks of corrosion and leaks. The surrounding area includes residential and agricultural land, necessitating careful operational practices to protect local ecosystems and water quality.