DTE Hits Michigan Families With Another Nearly Half-Billion Dollar Rate Hike Request

Yesterday, DTE Energy submitted a proposed $474 million rate hike, the latest in a series of massive utility rate increases that have driven Michigan electricity rates to among the highest in the country. The request comes just weeks after the last rate hike was approved, and on the heels of new analysis of how the state can lower energy costs, including measures to rein in utility profits and increase accountability designed to protect consumers from future rate hikes. In response, Evergreen Action Midwest Director Courtney Brady released the following statement:

“DTE’s proposed $474 million rate hike is a gut punch to Michigan families already stretched thin by high energy bills. The average customer already pays $362 a year just toward DTE’s profits—but they aren’t stopping there. DTE is effectively holding the PSC hostage, pledging to delay rate hikes only if huge data center projects are approved. And they’re doing so without meaningful community engagement or addressing major concerns, including rising energy costs. That’s exploitation, plain and simple.

“The PSC doesn’t have to accept this deal on DTE’s terms. Requiring data centers to pay their full share of energy costs could save customers nearly $100 a year. These facilities should also run on clean, affordable energy sources rather than volatile fossil fuels that will keep pushing rates higher. Michigan utility bills are not blank checks for corporate profits, and the PSC has both the power and responsibility to keep energy affordable.”