We will be updating this blog throughout the project — please bookmark this page to stay up to date on progress.
As Michigan continues to experience more frequent severe weather events, DTE Energy is taking steps to strengthen the electric grid and improve service reliability.
In Belleville, a significant number of outages are caused by trees coming into contact with power lines during storms—a challenge that has become more pressing as extreme weather becomes the norm. To address this, DTE launched a $32 million infrastructure improvement project in 2025, which includes:
- branches away from electrical equipment. Trimming not only clears the way for new poles and equipment, but it also significantly reduces the chance of outages.
- Installing smart grid devices that can reroute power to many customers during an outage, keeping their lights on while crews make repairs. Smart devices also help quickly locate the damage that caused an outage, allowing crews to arrive onsite faster.
- Completely rebuilding approximately 10 miles of overhead infrastructure, including poles, power lines and transformers. This new equipment is stronger and better able to withstand the increasingly extreme weather Michigan has been experiencing.
- Expanding the electric substation that services this area by adding new equipment. Substations play a vital role in the electric grid by reducing high-voltage electricity from power plants to safer levels to distribution to homes and businesses. The new equipment will ensure power continues to be delivered safely and reliably to customers.
What this means for Belleville residents
- Improves power quality for homes and businesses
- Prevents outages and speeds restoration times when outages do occur
- Reduces the risk of downed wires and electrical hazards
- Adds capacity to the electric system to support the growing energy needs of the community
Our progress
2025: Crews have been working to rebuild areas of the grid in Belleville along West Huron River Dr. and High St. This year, we’ve rebuilt approximately 3 miles of poles and power lines, replacing them with new, stronger equipment and trimmed trees along the way.
All this work is part of DTE’s commitment to building a smarter, stronger and more resilient grid to enhance reliability.
Rebuilding work is just one part of DTE’s plan to build the grid of the future, which also includes transitioning to a smart grid, upgrading existing infrastructure and trimming trees.
To learn more about work happening in your neighborhood, visit DTE’s Power Improvements Map.