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’re investing $61.5 million to rebuild and modernize the electric infrastructure that delivers power to customers in and around Harbor Beach and Minden City.
The work includes rebuilding 19 miles of electric infrastructure that provides power to homes and businesses throughout Michigan’s Thumb.
What we’re doing
- Replacing old wooden poles with new steel poles that will help keep the power lines standing tall during storms.
- Installing new power lines and transformers using stronger materials and a modern design to prevent future outages.
- Trimming and clearing trees near power lines to reduce outage risk. Fallen trees and branches damaging our equipment account for half the time our customers are without power.
These upgrades will create a stronger, more resilient electric grid and reduce the likelihood of future service interruptions, especially during extreme weather. In addition to improving electric reliability, the upgraded system will support future growth and help meet increasing energy demands.
Work will take place in phases from December 2026 through March 2031 across Sanilac and Huron counties. To safely complete this work, poles — and the wires that anchor them to the ground or a structure — may need to be placed on or near your property ahead of construction. These wires help prevent the power lines from sagging, swinging or breaking under stress from wind, ice, snow or other forces. Representatives from DTE’s right-of-way team will reach out to you in person to discuss the process of placing electric equipment on your property. In some cases, we will need to get the property owner’s permission (through an easement agreement) to perform the work.
This rebuilding work is part of DTE’s plan to build the grid of the future and supports our commitment to reducing power outages by 30% and cutting outage times in half by the end of 2029.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work to provide safe, reliable power to Minden City and Harbor Beach. Learn more about work happening in your community at dteenergy.com/powermap.