Affordable energy has long been top-of-mind for the Village of Mesick, a Northern Michigan community of about 400 people. For years, homes and businesses relied on expensive fuel options like propane, leaving many residents paying high energy costs. More affordable natural gas infrastructure seemed unattainable – until a commitment from DTE Energy and a state grant made it possible.
Village president David Clous is already seeing the benefits of natural gas. “I’ve seen major savings, cutting my monthly bill around 50%,” he said. “For me personally, that’s almost $1,000 a year.” DTE advocated for a State of Michigan grant that supported low-carbon, “next mile” natural gas infrastructure. This enabled DTE to extend natural gas service to communities like Mesick that were just beyond existing gas lines, providing residents with a lower-cost alternative to heat their homes and cook their meals. “We talked with different companies over the years,” Clous said of the effort to bring natural gas to Mesick, “but the projects just never moved forward. When DTE approached us, we didn’t hesitate. It was the first time the process felt achievable.”
“This project helped our residents, helped keep costs down and opened the door for future growth. We’re grateful it finally happened,” Clous said.