Energy companies doing more with underground work

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) - Michigan energy companies are weighing the pros and cons of overhead power lines versus underground ones.

Severe weather in Michigan can take a toll on exposed power lines. Consumers Energy spokesperson Brian Wheeler says this is one reason the company is looking to focus its efforts more on underground lines.

"We know that, over time, underground power lines can be more reliable," said Wheeler.

Consumers uses its Reliability Road Map to strategically place underground lines where they will be most beneficial.

"If we are in a heavily forested area, for example, maybe a more rural area, where trees are falling repeatedly, that makes a good candidate to bury more power lines," said Wheeler.

This won't solve all power problems, though, as the Lansing Board of Wate