At DTE Energy, we’re working to deliver safer, more reliable power to our customers no matter what weather Mother Nature brings our way. That’s why we plan to invest $14 million to rebuild the electric infrastructure that delivers power to customers in areas of Chelsea and Dexter. This project started in the early spring and will be completed later this year.
The work includes installing four miles of electric equipment — like new poles, power lines and transformers — and trimming trees along Dexter-Chelsea Road from the substation in Chelsea to city of Dexter. The new steel poles are taller and can better withstand extreme weather. When possible, poles will also be moved to the road right-of-way for easier access and faster repairs.
In addition to improving electric reliability, the work is also expected to improve the grid’s capacity to support growth in the area and more electric energy options, like electric vehicles.
This rebuilding work is part of DTE’s plan to build the grid of the future and will help DTE in its commitment to reducing power outages by 30% and cutting outage times in half by the end of 2029.
Progress
August 2026: Construction is progressing as planned, and we expect the project to be completed by the end of 2026. Much of the new electric infrastructure has been installed with cleanup and restoration work underway in areas where construction has been completed. Restoring areas impacted by our work to their original condition, both in your community and possibly on your property, will continue through early October. While we expect most restoration activities to be completed by early October, some work may take longer due to weather, site conditions or other unexpected circumstances. You do not need to report anything or take any action for this work to be completed.
You can learn more about work happening in your community at empoweringmichigan.com/reliability-improvements or with DTE’s Power Improvements Map.