Storm season is just around the corner, and DTE Energy has been hard at work in Detroit to make sure the electric grid is better able to withstand whatever weather Mother Nature sends our way.
Here’s how DTE is working for you:
Transitioning to a smart grid: DTE is continuing to install smart devices that help keep people safe by de-energizing fallen power lines. Smart devices can also reroute power to many customers during a power outage, so the lights stay on while crews make repairs. Finally, smart technology tells DTE exactly where damage is so crews can arrive onsite sooner and make repairs faster.
Upgrading existing infrastructure: DTE is replacing electric infrastructure with stronger equipment that can better withstand extreme weather. This year, the company will upgrade more than 300 miles of electric equipment in Detroit, like poles and pole-top equipment.
Rebuilding significant portions of the grid: And while upgrading is important, DTE is rebuilding older areas of its infrastructure. Crews are building substations from scratch and replacing all the poles, power lines and transformers that deliver electricity to homes and businesses.
Trimming trees: Half the time customers spend without power is because of trees falling into and damaging electrical equipment. Last year, DTE trimmed more than 350 miles of trees in Detroit. That’s the same distance as driving from Detroit to Louisville, Kentucky. This year, the company plans to trim another 340 miles of trees.
Because of these efforts and less extreme weather, DTE’s Detroit customers saw an 80% reduction in power outage time between 2023 and 2024. When DTE invests in the grid, it works. You can learn more about how DTE is working to keep the lights on for you and your neighbors at dteenergy.com/powermap.
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