Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-Op has launched a program to aid community organizations that supported residents during the March ice storm, according to a community announcement.
The storm, which began in late March, caused extensive damage to Northern Michigan’s energy grid, resulting in more than $175 million in damages. PIE&G’s entire system was knocked out, affecting more than 35,000 rural homes and businesses across nine counties.
Ice damaged trees and power lines are seen in Gaylord on Sunday, March 30, 2025.
All members impacted by the storm have had their power restored, and internet service has been restored to more than 90% of subscribers who lost service due to the ice storm, according to the May 21 announcement.
PIE&G is collaborating with local shelters, emergency services, fire departments, food pantries and other community organizations to determine how to best allocate additional funding for the support they provided during the storm.
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“At PIE&G, we are dedicated to investing in our communities across Northern Michigan,” Allan Berg, PIE&G CEO, said in the release. “We partner with local groups doing important community work and so many of these groups rallied together during the recent catastrophic ice storm. Part of our values is being a trusted energy and community partner and supporting those groups and individuals that help the communities we proudly serve.”
More information can be found at pieg.com.
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This article originally appeared on Cheboygan Daily Tribune: PIE&G launches new aid for local groups hit by March ice storm