Fri Jan 24 09:20:00 UTC 2025: **DTE Energy Granted Partial Rate Hike by Michigan Public Service Commission**

Lansing, MI – The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) on Thursday approved a $217.4 million rate increase for DTE Energy, resulting in an estimated $4.61 monthly increase for the average residential customer. This is significantly less than the $456.4 million initially requested by DTE in March.

The increase, effective February 6th, will fund improvements to grid reliability, primarily focusing on enhanced tree trimming to reduce outages. MPSC Chairman Dan Scripps emphasized the commission’s commitment to reducing prolonged power outages following significant public outcry in recent years. He cited a substantial drop in outage numbers and duration in 2024 as evidence of progress.

While the rate hike will impact consumers, DTE’s recent announcement of $300 million in fuel cost savings, effective November 1st, is expected to offset some of the increase, potentially lowering bills by approximately $5 per month through 2025. DTE spokeswoman Paula Silver highlighted the company’s ongoing efforts to improve operations and control costs.

The MPSC rejected several DTE requests, including $258,000 in corporate jet travel expenses and costs associated with certain outage credits. However, the commission approved DTE’s request to charge ratepayers for corporate memberships, despite objections from intervenor groups like Soulardarity and We Want Green Too who argued that some expenses, such as a $1.4 million membership in the Edison Electric Institute, are detrimental to customer interests. These groups also argued for a lower return on investment for DTE. The Michigan Attorney General’s office also advocated for a smaller rate increase, proposing a cap of $139.5 million.

The MPSC’s decision follows a $368.1 million rate increase approved for DTE in 2024, which resulted in a $6.51 increase in the average monthly residential bill. The three commissioners, appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer, made their decision after closed-door deliberations.

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