DTE Energy Response to Extreme Weather and Increased Power Demand
Increased Power Demand
DTE Energy (DTE) is not concerned about losing power as Detroit faces dangerous temperatures and extreme weather this week. However, power demands are up 20-30%, placing further stress on the grid than they’ve experienced in past years. DTE has taken extra measures to ensure their grid stays intact, with over a thousand employees on call to address power outages caused by increased energy consumption.
Adjusted Energy Rates
DTE is making use of its adjusted energy rates that charge customers extra for power usage in the late afternoon and early evening. Through a programme called CoolCurrents, DTE provides a lower energy cost in exchange for stopping the air conditioner during times of high demand. A little over 200,000 clients have registered for the offer.
Preparedness and Safety Measures
DTE is not worried about losing power, but they are confident that with their resources on standby and their ability to respond, this will not be a prolonged type of interruption to power if indeed something does happen.
The most common weather-related death in the United States is heat. For those that have lost power, DTE and the Dearborn Fire Department have offered additional ways to stay safe and maintain energy efficiency.
Tips for cooling down include closing shades for sun-facing windows, turning the thermostat up a few degrees, postponing outdoor activities, wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, drinking plenty of water or juices, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, spending time in the shade, and not leaving children, elderly individuals, or pets in the car.
Natural Gas Leaks
A study and legal testimony from a leak detection professional in Ann Arbor, Michigan, indicates that natural gas leaks from DTE Energy’s distribution system are likely causing the death of at least 31 trees, threatening the shade-giving species that give Ann Arbor its nickname, “Tree Town.”
Refunds for Power Outages
As DTE Energy attempts to alter the way certain customers receive refunds following power disruptions, Michigan officials have stepped in. Currently, utility providers are responsible for issuing automatic credits to customers who meet specific outage criteria.
However, DTE is trying to change this process for customers without smart meters. Traditional electric metres, according to DTE, make it difficult for the firm to track outages on its own and necessitate direct consumer action.
In response to DTE Energy’s request for a permanent waiver before the Michigan Public Service Commission, Attorney General Dana Nessel of Michigan filed a notice of intervention. Nessel argues that DTE is trying to put the burden back on customers, even though they are owed credits for the loss of service they are paying.
Michigan Community Solar Legislation
Legislators and citizens in Michigan have supported community solar legislation, which aims to reduce energy costs, support small farms financially, and create jobs. However, DTE and Consumers oppose the bills, arguing they will add costs for non-subscribers.
The bill’s promoters argue that it might solve Michigan’s ongoing power outages, increase community wealth by enabling locals to collectively own solar installations, and result in cost savings.
Community solar projects have the potential to reduce energy costs for low-income households, making solar energy benefits available to those who can’t afford the high upfront cost, rent their homes, or have unsuitable roofs.
The legislation includes a provision that no less than 30% of the electricity produced by each solar installation be reserved for low-income households and organizations providing services for low-income residents. Advocates also highlight the potential to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from the energy sector, which produces 29% of the state’s planet-warming emissions. State Sen.
Ed McBroom (R-Vulcan) co-sponsored the legislation with State Sen. Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor), who said community solar was one of the few opportunities he saw to lower energy bills for ratepayers in the Upper Peninsula. Utilities, including DTE and Consumers, argue that the legislation is unnecessary and impractical, burdening non-subscribers with the cost of the distribution infrastructure needed to support community solar.
Additionally, they have made significant financial investments to impact the state’s political process in 2022, DTE and Consumer-affiliated NGOs spent $9.4 million, including $950,000 in donations to a nonprofit connected to Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Power Outages in Metro Detroit
DTE Energy in Metro Detroit is facing power outages due to a heat wave, with service interruptions impacting residents across the region. In Taylor, Michigan, one neighborhood lost power since Monday afternoon.
Despite the outages and a 20-30% increase in power demand, DTE claims robust preparations are in place. Energy conservation is a critical message, with the greatest pressure on the system between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. during the day.
DTE has encouraged residents to close blinds, use fans, run appliances at night, and set thermostats higher. Incentivized programs like CoolCurrents offer discounted rates in exchange for intermittent air conditioning. DTE has distributed fans and bottled water to those affected.
Health and safety during heat waves are also being raised, with tips suggesting closing sun-facing shades, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding strenuous activities during peak thermal periods.
Intervention in Outage Credit Case
