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Financings and Capitalization (Dividend Restrictions) (Details) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended
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Dec. 31, 2011
Limitation on payment of stock dividends | $ 1,200,000,000
Consumers Energy Company [Member] |
Common stock dividends from Consumers | 374,000,000
Unrestricted retained earnings | $ 493,000,000

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