(WWJ) DTE Energy is proposing a major shift in how it generates and supplies electricity over the next 20 years.
The utility has submitted its long-term plan to the Michigan Public Service Commission, calling for an end to coal power by 2032, beginning with the shutdown of the Monroe Power Plant.
DTE plans to make up some of that lost generation by upgrading Fermi 2, so the nuclear plant can produce more electricity.
"As we retire coal in 2032, our job is to replace that power with resources that work together around the clock — renewables, storage, nuclear and natural gas," said Matt Paul, president of DTE Electric. "We designed this plan to be achievable and affordable — grounded in real analysis and feedback from customers and built to deliver cleaner energy while meeting Michigan's growing needs for the next 20 years and beyond."
DTE said the first phase of the Monroe Power Plant closure will take place in 2028, with the final phase occurring in 2032, retiring approximately 3 gigawatts of generation capacity. In 2005, coal accounted for 62% of DTE's generation capacity. By 2033, DTE will not operate a single coal plant.
The company also wants to build two new natural gas plants to handle times of high demand.
DTE says the plan includes efforts to help customers use less electricity, along with a virtual power plant that would connect batteries in homes and businesses to help support the grid when needed.
DTE said it built the plan with input from customers, communities, businesses and energy experts.
"We're building a stronger tomorrow for Michigan's children and grandchildren," said Joi Harris, president and CEO of DTE Energy. "We listened closely to our customers throughout this process, and this plan reflects what they told us matters most to them: reliable power, affordable bills and a practical path to a cleaner energy future. It balances those priorities while ensuring Michigan has the energy it needs to continue growing for decades to come."
The MPSC will review the proposal, a process that could take up to a year.
