Commission gives sharply-worded rebuke to DTE’s rate increase request
The Mount Clemens City Commission has adopted a sharply-worded resolution opposing DTE Energy’s proposed rate increases, saying the hike would present an unreasonable burden on residents and businesses who receive “terrible” service as the utility reaps in billions of dollars of profits.
Commissioners noted the request proposed by DTE comes a mere four months after the utility received permission to increase its rates by $368 million, a move that will cost the average residential customer $100 or more per year.
“The excessive and burdensome rate hike proposed by DTE Energy, if approved, would result in serious hardship for Mount Clemens residents, but especially those who live in lower and middle-income households, fixed-income households, small businesses, and operate nonprofits,” the resolution stated.
Commissioner Erik Rick said DTE has failed to provide “reasonable” rate increases, “unacceptable” levels of performances in addressing service interruptions, and can’t meet goals for providing incentives. He urged residents to email the Michigan Public Service Commission, which has the authority to approve the increase, in opposition to the request.
Last month, DTE filed a rate increase request with the Michigan Public Service Commission, asking the panel to approve a $456 million rate increase for its electric customers.
If the full rate increase is approved, it would be about an $11 increase for the average monthly residential bill. DTE officials have said the rate increase is needed to invest in its grid and improve service reliability.
City Manager Gregg Shipman said the rate increase would result in $450 million. He said DTE seeks to raise its annual rates by more than $800 million