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Bat Encounters and Rabies Risk: What You Need to Know

Rabies Risk and Bat Safety Awareness

In Colorado, there have been numerous confirmed cases of rabies in bats in 2025, along with one reported case in neighboring Wyoming. In this region, bats and skunks are the most common carriers of rabies—a rare but deadly virus that can infect all mammals, including humans.

Rabies can be prevented when medical treatment is started promptly after exposure. The virus is transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals, not through casual contact or exposure to blood, urine, or feces. Because bat bites can be difficult to detect, anyone who has direct contact with a bat, or wakes up to find one in their room, should seek medical or public health guidance immediately.

When safe and feasible, bats that may have had contact with humans should be captured for rabies testing to help guide treatment decisions. To learn more about rabies, visit the CDC.

Important Safety Guidelines Regarding Bats

  • Do not touch or handle bats—whether they appear sick, behave unusually, or are deceased. Like any wild animal, bats may bite if they feel threatened. Anyone bitten by a bat should seek medical attention and, if it can be done safely, contain the bat for testing.
  • Wash animal bites thoroughly with soap and water and consult a medical professional as soon as possible.
  • Keep pets vaccinated and up to date on rabies immunizations.
  • Report potential exposure immediately by contacting a local wildlife animal control professional. If you’re in Colorado, contact CDPHE; in Wyoming, contact the Wyoming Department of Health.

What to Do When You Encounter a Bat

Bats and humans occasionally cross paths, and the appropriate response depends on where and how the bat is encountered.

  • Bats in unused areas of buildings—such as attics, barns, or sheds—can be humanely excluded using one-way doors that allow them to exit but not return. This method should only be used in late summer or early fall, as earlier use can separate flightless pups from their mothers.
  • If a bat enters a living space, open a window (remove the screen), close off the room overnight, and allow the bat to leave on its own.
  • Seeing bats outside during the day is not unusual and often means they are roosting or searching for a place to rest. Leave resting bats alone. However, bats flying during winter may indicate white-nose syndrome and should be reported to Wyoming Game and Fish or your local public health department.
  • If you find an injured bat, contact your local public health department if in Colorado or the Wyoming Game & Fish. Do not attempt to handle, rehabilitate, or keep a bat, as this is illegal without proper permits.

Professional Bat Eviction and Cleanup Services

Front Range Pest provides safe, humane bat eviction using proven exclusion techniques that allow bats to exit naturally while preventing reentry. Our process begins with a thorough inspection to identify entry points, followed by the installation of one-way exclusion devices. Once bats have vacated, all openings are permanently sealed.

We also offer full cleanup and restoration services, including guano removal, disinfection, and repair or replacement of damaged insulation, drywall, or flooring—restoring affected areas to a clean, safe condition.

A Humane and Responsible Approach to Bat Control

Front Range Pest uses ethical, non-lethal bat control methods that protect both homeowners and wildlife. Because bats are a protected species and vital to Colorado’s and Wyoming’s ecosystem, we do not exterminate them. Instead, we humanely evict bats and secure your home to prevent reentry—keeping your family safe while preserving the bat colony.

If you suspect bat activity in your home or have concerns about potential exposure, contact Front Range Pest for a professional inspection and peace of mind.

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Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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How to Secure a Construction Bond: A Step-by-Step Guide

When a construction company needs to secure a bond, the most critical first step is partnering with a reputable surety bond broker. An experienced broker serves as your advocate throughout the bonding process, helping position your company in the strongest possible light and guiding you toward the most favorable bond terms and conditions available.

A knowledgeable surety broker understands the underwriting process in depth and provides strategic guidance on how to structure and submit your bonding program. This expertise can significantly improve approval odds, expand bonding capacity, and help reduce overall costs. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, the right broker evaluates your unique financial profile and project requirements to identify the most effective bonding strategy.

Risk Assessment and the Surety Underwriting Process

To evaluate risk, surety companies require detailed information about your business. Your surety broker will help gather and review key documentation, which may include:

  • Financial statements
  • Work-in-progress (WIP) reports
  • Organizational and ownership structure
  • Project history and backlog
  • Additional supporting documentation as needed

This information is analyzed by your broker and submitted to surety companies that best align with your company’s size, experience, and financial profile.

What Surety Underwriters Evaluate

Once submitted, the surety company assigns an underwriter to assess several critical factors, including:

  • Your company’s financial strength and cash flow
  • Capacity to perform the proposed construction project
  • Experience with similar projects
  • Performance and status of current and past jobs

This evaluation helps the surety determine whether your company is a suitable risk and what level of bonding support can be offered.

Bond Terms, Indemnity, and Final Approval

Based on the underwriting review, the surety company will propose specific bond terms and conditions. If accepted, you will be required to sign an indemnity agreement, which legally obligates you to reimburse the surety for any losses or expenses incurred under the bond.

Depending on your financial strength and organizational structure, the surety may also require personal indemnity and, in some cases, collateral to further mitigate risk.

Why Working with a Surety Broker Matters

Partnering with an experienced surety broker does more than streamline the bonding process—it improves approval odds, strengthens financial credibility, and positions your construction business for long-term growth. A strong bonding relationship supports not only individual projects but also your company’s overall capacity to pursue larger and more complex opportunities with confidence.

At Construction Bonding Specialists, LLC, we work with both new and seasoned contractors to deliver practical, dependable bond solutions tailored to each client’s needs. As a surety bond-only agency with decades of industry experience, we handle everything from standard bonding programs to more challenging cases. Our relationships with multiple Treasury-Listed and AM Best-rated surety markets allow us to support virtually all Bid, Performance, Payment, Financial Guarantee, and Supply Bond requirements—ensuring contractors have the backing they need at every stage of growth.

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At Construction Bonding Specialists, we work with new and experienced contractors to find the most satisfactory bond solutions. As a dedicated surety-bond-only agency with decades of bonding experience, we strive to discover surety solutions for all types of cases, ranging from routine to challenging. Contact us online or call us at 248-349-6227 to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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Understanding Bat Safety and Awareness in Michigan Communities

Recent incidents across Michigan have renewed attention on the risks associated with bat exposure and the importance of proper wildlife management. In September 2025, the Grand Traverse County Health Department (GTCHD) confirmed that a bat found inside a residence tested positive for rabies.

In a separate incident, the Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) reported that a bat found in Barry County tested positive for rabies in December 2025. Health officials confirmed that all individuals identified as potentially exposed are receiving appropriate post-exposure medical care.

Understanding the Risk of Rabies

According to Michigan.gov, rabies is a preventable viral disease that affects mammals and is most commonly transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. In the United States, rabies is primarily found in wildlife such as bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. The virus attacks the central nervous system and, without prompt medical treatment following exposure, can lead to severe brain infection and death.

Rabies prevention includes keeping pets properly vaccinated, avoiding contact with wildlife and stray animals, and seeking immediate medical attention after a bite—before symptoms appear.

To learn more about rabies, visit the Michigan.gov website.

How to Protect Your Family and Home

Local and state health officials strongly encourage residents to remain vigilant and take preventative measures to reduce the risk of rabies exposure. Recommended precautions include:

  • Avoid direct contact with wild animals, especially bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes.
  • Keep all pets up to date on rabies vaccinations, including dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, cattle, and sheep.
  • Secure your home by sealing gaps, vents, and other openings that could allow bats to enter.
  • Never handle bats or other wildlife with your bare hands.
  • If a bat is found in your home, do not release it. Safely contain it without direct contact, contact your local health department regarding possible exposure, and call a licensed wildlife or pest control professional for assistance.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you are bitten, scratched, or have direct contact with a bat or other wild animal.

Professional Bat Eviction and Cleanup Services

The specialists at Northern Pest are trained, equipped, and experienced in safely and effectively resolving bat issues. Our bat eviction process uses specialized exclusion devices designed to allow bats to exit the structure naturally while preventing their return.

After conducting a comprehensive inspection to locate all entry points, our technicians install one-way exclusion valves over those openings. Once the bats have fully vacated, the devices are removed and all access points are permanently sealed to prevent re-entry.

Following eviction, our restoration team addresses the cleanup and repair process. This includes removing bat guano and contaminated materials, disinfecting affected areas, replacing damaged insulation, drywall, or flooring, and restoring the space to a clean, safe condition. When we’re finished, your attic or affected area is returned to like-new condition.

A Humane and Responsible Approach

One of the most common questions we receive is whether our bat eviction process harms the bats. Northern Pest is committed to humane wildlife control. Bats are a protected species and play a vital role in the ecosystem, particularly in controlling insect populations.

Our eviction methods are designed to be ethical and non-lethal. We do not exterminate bats. Instead, we encourage them to relocate safely and prevent future access to your home—protecting both your family and the bat colony.

If you suspect bat activity in your home or have concerns about potential exposure, contact Northern Pest for a professional inspection and peace of mind.

________

Northern Pest: Protecting Michigan families like our own. We are licensed and insured to provide pest control for insects and wildlife. Our crew has the expertise to track wildlife entry points and remove pests of all kinds, including our licensed builders, who can make any of the necessary repairs caused by wildlife. Northern Pest is a member of the MDAT and the NWCOA. We are certified by the IICRC to provide professional mold mitigation services resulting from animal damage. From prevention to repair, Northern Pest is your full-service solution.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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401(k) Debate Fuels Interest in Co-Buying Homes

As housing affordability continues to challenge homebuyers, President Donald Trump has expressed concerns about a proposal that would allow individuals to withdraw money from their 401(k) retirement accounts to use as a home down payment. Trump has emphasized protecting long-term retirement savings, noting that many 401(k) accounts are performing well and should remain focused on future financial security.

The proposed 401(k) withdrawal plan for homebuyers is part of a broader White House effort to address rising home prices, higher mortgage payments, and increasing down payment requirements. However, as debate continues around the proposal, many buyers are already exploring alternative paths to homeownership.

Platonic Co-Buying: A Growing Homeownership Strategy

One alternative gaining momentum is co-buying a home with friends or family, sometimes called platonic co-buying. This approach allows buyers to pool financial resources, share mortgage costs, and qualify for homes that might otherwise be out of reach.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the average age of first-time homebuyers has increased, with the typical buyer now reaching an all-time high of 40 years old. Single buyers—particularly single women—also represent a significant share of the market, highlighting a shift away from traditional homebuying models toward more flexible ownership arrangements.

Why Co-Buying Appeals to Today’s Homebuyers

Housing experts say co-buying offers several advantages:

  • Reduces the need to tap into retirement savings
  • Increases purchasing power
  • Helps buyers afford higher home prices while sharing monthly housing costs
  • Allows homeownership to be treated as a long-term investment

However, experts caution that co-buying requires careful planning, including clear legal agreements that define exit strategies. Open communication, aligned financial goals, and financial compatibility are essential to avoid future conflicts and protect all parties involved.

Housing Market Conditions Continue to Influence Buyer Decisions

Recent data shows that monthly housing payments have declined slightly, but home sale prices remain elevated in many markets. While some metro areas have experienced modest price drops, others continue to see price growth, reinforcing the need for creative affordability solutions.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration has explored additional policies, including a temporary cap on credit card interest rates and restrictions on institutional investors purchasing single-family homes. Both proposals have drawn criticism from financial and housing industry experts concerned about unintended market impacts.

Rethinking the Path to Homeownership

As the housing market evolves, strategies like co-buying reflect a broader reimagining of the American Dream of homeownership. For many buyers, sharing ownership may offer a practical alternative to tapping retirement accounts—balancing affordability today with financial security for the future.

Get pre-approved today, so you can shop tomorrow! Mortgage rates change daily and depend on your unique situation—contact EB Mortgage to find the best option for you.  

_____________

EB Mortgage is a locally owned mortgage company with experts in new home purchase, refinancing, and commercial loans. Our wholesale rates can’t be beaten. We offer more products, more options, and more solutions. Our “3C” Process is simple: complete our pre-approval request, consider options based on your requirements, and choose the offer that suits your needs best. Call us or e-mail us today! 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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Understanding Bat Safety and Awareness in Michigan Communities

Recent incidents across Michigan have renewed attention on the risks associated with bat exposure and the importance of proper wildlife management. In September 2025, the Grand Traverse County Health Department (GTCHD) confirmed that a bat found inside a residence tested positive for rabies.

In a separate incident, the Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) reported that a bat found in Barry County tested positive for rabies in December 2025. Health officials confirmed that all individuals identified as potentially exposed are receiving appropriate post-exposure medical care.

Understanding the Risk of Rabies

According to Michigan.gov, rabies is a preventable viral disease that affects mammals and is most commonly transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. In the United States, rabies is primarily found in wildlife such as bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. The virus attacks the central nervous system and, without prompt medical treatment following exposure, can lead to severe brain infection and death.

Rabies prevention includes keeping pets properly vaccinated, avoiding contact with wildlife and stray animals, and seeking immediate medical attention after a bite—before symptoms appear.

To learn more about rabies, visit the Michigan.gov website.

How to Protect Your Family and Home

Local and state health officials strongly encourage residents to remain vigilant and take preventative measures to reduce the risk of rabies exposure. Recommended precautions include:

  • Avoid direct contact with wild animals, especially bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes.
  • Keep all pets up to date on rabies vaccinations, including dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, cattle, and sheep.
  • Secure your home by sealing gaps, vents, and other openings that could allow bats to enter.
  • Never handle bats or other wildlife with your bare hands.
  • If a bat is found in your home, do not release it. Safely contain it without direct contact, contact your local health department regarding possible exposure, and call a licensed wildlife or pest control professional for assistance.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you are bitten, scratched, or have direct contact with a bat or other wild animal.

Professional Bat Eviction and Cleanup Services

The specialists at Northern Pest are trained, equipped, and experienced in safely and effectively resolving bat issues. Our bat eviction process uses specialized exclusion devices designed to allow bats to exit the structure naturally while preventing their return.

After conducting a comprehensive inspection to locate all entry points, our technicians install one-way exclusion valves over those openings. Once the bats have fully vacated, the devices are removed and all access points are permanently sealed to prevent re-entry.

Following eviction, our restoration team addresses the cleanup and repair process. This includes removing bat guano and contaminated materials, disinfecting affected areas, replacing damaged insulation, drywall, or flooring, and restoring the space to a clean, safe condition. When we’re finished, your attic or affected area is returned to like-new condition.

A Humane and Responsible Approach

One of the most common questions we receive is whether our bat eviction process harms the bats. Northern Pest is committed to humane wildlife control. Bats are a protected species and play a vital role in the ecosystem, particularly in controlling insect populations.

Our eviction methods are designed to be ethical and non-lethal. We do not exterminate bats. Instead, we encourage them to relocate safely and prevent future access to your home—protecting both your family and the bat colony.

If you suspect bat activity in your home or have concerns about potential exposure, contact Northern Pest for a professional inspection and peace of mind.

________

Northern Pest: Protecting Michigan families like our own. We are licensed and insured to provide pest control for insects and wildlife. Our crew has the expertise to track wildlife entry points and remove pests of all kinds, including our licensed builders, who can make any of the necessary repairs caused by wildlife. Northern Pest is a member of the MDAT and the NWCOA. We are certified by the IICRC to provide professional mold mitigation services resulting from animal damage. From prevention to repair, Northern Pest is your full-service solution.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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IT Support — Simplified for 2026

Technology should enable your business—not slow it down. As IT environments grow more complex and security threats continue to evolve, businesses need reliable, responsive IT support they can count on. In 2026, simplicity, security, and uptime matter more than ever.

CPS delivers comprehensive IT services designed to reduce downtime, improve system reliability, and protect your business-critical data—so you can stay focused on what matters most.

Reliable IT Support When You Need It Most

CPS provides a full range of IT services that keep systems running smoothly and issues resolved quickly. Our proactive approach helps prevent problems before they disrupt operations.

Our IT Services Include:

  • 24/7 system and network monitoring to identify and resolve issues before they impact productivity
  • Server and workstation installation and maintenance for stable, reliable performance
  • IT system and security audits to strengthen protection and support compliance requirements
  • Managed antivirus and system health monitoring for proactive threat detection
  • Custom-built PCs and servers designed specifically for your business environment
  • Data backup and recovery services to safeguard critical information and minimize risk
  • Employee troubleshooting and end-user support for fast, efficient issue resolution
  • Vendor coordination with a single, trusted point of contact

Hybrid IT Services Built Around Your Business

Not every business needs the same level of IT support—and that’s exactly why CPS offers flexible hybrid IT services. Whether you require occasional break/fix assistance or a fully managed IT environment, we tailor our services to match your needs.

You choose the level of support. Our experts handle the rest—everything from strategic planning and system optimization to data recovery and long-term technology guidance.

We Make IT Easy

At CPS, our goal is simple: make information technology work for you. We design, implement, and support systems that improve efficiency, enhance security, and scale with your business.

Over 30 Years of Trusted IT Experience

For more than 30 years, CPS has helped businesses maximize their technology investments through tailored solutions spanning hardware, infrastructure, and custom software development. Our experienced IT professionals take the time to understand how your business operates, delivering solutions that support growth, security, and long-term success.

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Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems delivers professional results for all your computer needs. We design, create, and code various custom software programs and websites. Additionally, we offer superior digital marketing services, including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising. We also repair and support commercial computer infrastructure, build custom systems and servers, and provide secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call (810)224-5252 or email info@cpsmi.com us!

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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Winterizing a Saltwater Pool in Michigan: Don’t Forget the Salt Cell

Properly winterizing your saltwater pool is essential in Michigan, where freezing temperatures can cause serious damage if equipment isn’t handled correctly. While the overall pool-closing process is similar to any other pool, saltwater systems require one important extra step: protecting the salt cell during winter.

Salt cells stop producing chlorine once water temperatures drop below about 50–60°F. This is normal and helps preserve the life of the system, since colder water reduces chlorine demand and limits algae and bacteria growth. During this time, pool sanitation is typically maintained with traditional chlorine methods.

Because Michigan winters bring prolonged freezing conditions, salt cells should be removed, cleaned, and stored indoors before closing the pool. Leaving a salt cell installed can lead to freeze damage if trapped water expands inside the unit, potentially cracking the housing or damaging the internal plates—often resulting in costly replacement.

Many pool owners choose to install a dummy cell in place of the salt cell for winter. This keeps plumbing properly aligned and protected through seasonal freeze-thaw cycles, making spring start-up easier and safer.

If you reopen your pool in spring and notice low chlorine levels, winter damage to the salt cell may be the cause. The best solution is prevention—removing and storing the salt cell each winter helps protect your investment and ensures your pool is ready for the season ahead.

For professional pool plaster finishes for residential and commercial applications—including ceramic tile repair and replacement, porcelain and glass tile, frost-proof coping replacement, and more—contact Pound Pool in southeast Michigan to schedule a consultation.

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Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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Kitchen Layouts in 2026: Beyond the Work Triangle

At JFC Remodeling, we’re seeing a clear shift toward kitchen layouts that better reflect how homeowners in Southeast Michigan actually use their kitchens today. For decades, the kitchen work triangle—linking the sink, stove, and refrigerator—served as the gold standard in design, prioritizing efficiency by minimizing steps and streamlining everyday cooking. While this concept still has value, today’s designers agree that modern kitchens are moving beyond a one-size-fits-all approach.

Why the Traditional Kitchen Triangle Has Limits

The kitchen work triangle works well for solo cooks in smaller spaces, but it doesn’t always support today’s busy households. Modern kitchens are no longer just cooking zones—they’re gathering spaces, homework hubs, coffee stations, and entertainment centers.

When islands, multiple cooks, kids grabbing snacks, or guests gathering get in the way, the traditional triangle can create traffic bottlenecks rather than efficiency. That’s why designers now look beyond appliance placement to consider lifestyle factors such as:

  • Household size and routines
  • Cooking and entertaining habits
  • Traffic flow and accessibility
  • Long-term flexibility as needs change

A successful kitchen remodel balances function and comfort—not just efficiency for one cook.

The Rise of Kitchen Zones

Instead of relying solely on the work triangle, today’s kitchens are designed around zones. This approach breaks the kitchen into dedicated areas based on tasks, allowing multiple people to use the space at the same time without disruption.

Common kitchen zones include:

  • Food prep
  • Cooking
  • Cleanup
  • Dry food and pantry storage

Additional lifestyle-driven zones may include:

  • Coffee or beverage stations
  • Baking areas
  • Snack zones for kids
  • Dining or hangout spaces
  • Drop zones for mail and devices

Zoning creates a more intuitive, flexible kitchen layout that supports both daily routines and entertaining.

Designing a Kitchen That Works for Your Life

During a kitchen renovation, designers carefully study how each zone will be used and how they interact. High-traffic zones are kept efficient and close together, while secondary zones are placed along the perimeter to reduce congestion.

For example:

  • Snack and drink zones can be positioned away from the main cooking area
  • Dishwashers are placed for easy access to storage without crossing cooking paths
  • Pantries may include secondary appliances to reduce clutter in the main kitchen

This thoughtful planning helps reduce unnecessary steps while keeping the space open and functional.

A Smarter Approach to Kitchen Remodeling

The kitchen work triangle isn’t disappearing—but it’s no longer the rule. Zone-based kitchen design allows homeowners to create spaces that feel custom, efficient, and adaptable to modern life. If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel in Southeast Michigan, JFC Remodeling can help you design a space that reflects how you live today—and how you’ll live tomorrow.

Contact JFC Remodeling to start planning a kitchen renovation that combines smart design, craftsmanship, and long-term value.

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JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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Michigan’s Rising Energy Demand: What It Means for Industry, Infrastructure, and Electrical Supply

Michigan’s energy landscape is undergoing significant change. According to the Michigan Public Service Commission’s (MPSC) Winter Energy Appraisal for 2025–2026, demand for both electricity and natural gas is expected to rise, adding pressure to infrastructure, pricing, and long-term planning across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.

Growing Demand, Adequate Supply

The MPSC projects electricity demand to increase 2.9% in 2025, reaching approximately 100.46 terawatt-hours, up from 98.8 TWh in 2024. Residential demand leads the increase at 5.8%, followed by commercial growth of 3.2%, while industrial demand is expected to dip slightly by 0.6%.

Natural gas usage is also forecast to rise 3.3% overall, driven by strong growth in:

  • Commercial demand: +14.4%
  • Residential demand: +13.9%
  • Industrial demand: +12.1%

At the same time, natural gas used for electric generation is expected to decline 10.8%, reflecting continued shifts in generation strategies.

Despite rising demand, the appraisal indicates no anticipated supply shortages. Independent system operators serving Michigan, along with the state’s capacity demonstration process, confirm that sufficient generation and transmission capacity is available to meet projected needs.

Energy Prices Continue to Climb

While supply remains stable, costs are trending upward. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) forecasts average residential electricity prices in the East North Central region to reach 17.57 cents per kWh in 2025, a 6.3% increase year over year. Actual prices in Michigan will continue to vary by utility.

Fuel costs show mixed movement:

  • Residential propane averaged $2.16 per gallon in October 2025, unchanged from 2024.
  • No. 2 heating oil began the season at $3.13 per gallon, up slightly year over year.
  • Midwest gasoline prices are expected to average $2.96 per gallon in 2025 before dropping to $2.65 in 2026, with gasoline demand declining modestly.

Utility Rate Hikes Add Pressure

In March 2025, the MPSC approved a $154 million electric rate increase for Consumers Energy. Although the approved amount was significantly lower than the utility’s original $325 million request, it follows another rate hike approved just a year earlier. These recurring increases underscore the growing cost burden on Michigan ratepayers, even as energy demand continues to rise.

The Impact of AI and Data Centers

A major driver behind increasing electricity demand nationwide is the rapid expansion of AI-driven data centers. Investment in data center infrastructure now exceeds what the U.S. spent to build the entire interstate highway system (inflation-adjusted). These facilities require massive, continuous power loads, placing additional strain on regional grids.

As utilities invest heavily in new generation, transmission, and grid upgrades to support this growth, costs are often passed on to customers—contributing to higher electric bills for residential and commercial users alike.

What This Means for Industrial Operations

For manufacturers, utilities, and large-scale facilities, these trends highlight the importance of:

  • Reliable, scalable electrical infrastructure
  • Efficient power distribution equipment
  • Forward-looking planning to accommodate load growth and rate volatility

At J&P Electrical Company, we support industrial customers navigating this evolving energy environment by supplying large-scale, high-quality electrical equipment designed to meet increasing demand while maintaining reliability and compliance. As Michigan’s energy needs continue to grow, having the right electrical infrastructure in place will be more critical than ever.

________

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance. 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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Surety Bond Costs and What Drives Your Premium

Surety bonds are a routine requirement across the construction industry, but securing the right bond doesn’t have to strain your budget. Understanding how bond costs are calculated—and what influences your rate—helps you make informed decisions as you prepare for upcoming projects.

What Surety Bonds Typically Cost

Surety bond premiums are charged as a percentage of the total bond amount. Most contractors fall within the 1%–5% range, though rates can dip to 0.5% for highly qualified applicants or rise to 20% in higher-risk situations.

Your rate reflects the surety’s assessment of your ability to fulfill contract obligations. For example:

  • A contractor with strong credit, solid financials, and a track record of successful work may secure a 1% rate on a $500,000 bond—paying $5,000.
  • A contractor with weak financials or poor performance history might pay 6% or $30,000 for the same bond.

Key Factors That Influence Surety Bond Rates

Sureties consider several factors when determining the risk they are assuming. The most significant include:

Bond Type:Risk varies by bond category.

  • Low-risk bonds, such as notary or probate bonds, often have lower rates.
  • Higher-risk bonds, like performance and payment bonds for complex construction work, typically come with higher premiums.

Bond Amount:Larger bond amounts carry greater exposure for the surety. Even if two contractors have similar qualifications, a $300,000 bond often commands a higher rate than a $30,000 bond because of the higher financial risk.

Credit Profile:Personal and business credit are central to underwriting. Strong credit signals reliability and increases the likelihood of favorable rates. Poor or limited credit usually results in higher premiums.

Financial Strength: Sureties evaluate working capital, liquidity, and overall financial stability. Contractors with strong balance sheets are more likely to secure lower rates because they pose less default risk.

Industry Experience: Experience matters—particularly with contract bonds. Sureties consider your technical capabilities, staffing, financial resources, and history of successfully completing similar projects. Limited experience or inconsistent performance can drive rates higher.

Claims History:A clean claims record demonstrates reliability. Frequent or significant past claims may indicate performance issues, increase perceived risk, and raise your premium.

Reputation and Character: Underwriters also look at less tangible indicators of reliability: communication practices, management stability, subcontractor relationships, and payment history. Contractors known for professionalism and integrity often benefit from more competitive rates.

Making Surety Costs Work for You

Surety bond pricing is shaped by both the scope of the project and the financial strength of the contractor. By improving credit, reinforcing financials, and building a consistent track record of successful projects, contractors can secure better rates and gain a competitive edge in bidding.

Construction Bonding Specialists supports contractors through every stage of the bonding process. Our team provides expert guidance across all construction bond types and ensures clients meet state and industry requirements with confidence. Contact us today to get started.

___________

At Construction Bonding Specialists, we work with new and experienced contractors to find the most satisfactory bond solutions. As a dedicated surety-bond-only agency with decades of bonding experience, we strive to discover surety solutions for all types of cases, ranging from routine to challenging. Contact us online or call us at 248-349-6227 to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.