This blog is part of United for Infrastructure Week. Continue reading to see how DTE’s commitment to investing in infrastructure is helping us serve our customers, while also benefiting Michigan’s economy.
For well over a century, DTE Energy has provided power to millions of Michiganders spanning across several generations. Starting with gas in 1857, and later adding electricity in 1903, our power generation has grown safer, cleaner, and more efficient over time – but one thing has never wavered: we take great pride in being the lifeblood of our communities where we live and serve.
Providing dependable power to that many people is a big commitment – and takes a lot of infrastructure. In our electric service territory, we have 47,000 miles of power lines, more than one million utility poles, and nearly 4,000 circuits. In our gas territories, we have 39,000 miles of natural gas lines and perform more than 300,000 safety inspections each year to keep families safe. We’ve also made a strong promise to expand our renewable energy output, with 31 solar parks and 15 wind parks spread throughout the state.
We understand the importance of all this infrastructure and have billion-dollar investment plans to maintain and upgrade critical pieces to make sure Michigan families have the power they need. But our investments don’t only improve your service, they also greatly contribute to Michigan’s economy.
Our Impact
DTE prides itself on being a leading investor in Michigan business. In total, we’ve spent roughly $11.4 billion with Michigan-based vendors since 2010. Our innovative approach to suppliers involves outreach, advocacy, training, and mentoring to build lasting business relationships. Today, nearly 65 cents of every dollar our company spends goes straight to a Michigan company.
In the same span, we’ve created or helped retain approximately 34,000 Michigan jobs. We’ve also partnered with Henry Ford College to create the Power and Trades Pathways program, designed to prepare the next generation of skilled trades professionals who will help lead the way in the energy industry. A few years into the program, students have already graduated and are making an impact with us and other energy companies throughout the state.
The energy industry as a whole is budding with job opportunities. In the next five years, one-third of all DTE skilled trades professionals are expected to retire and we’re working to build the pipeline of young talent in Michigan to replace them. It’s crucial for the success of energy companies and the state.