Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is putting on the gloves again to defend state residents from yet another utility rate hike. This time, DTE Energy is seeking an additional $574 million from its customers, following a $217 million increase approved just three months ago. Nessel has promised to step into the ring once more, representing the consumer's corner as DTE presents its case to the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC).
In a recent filing, DTE has submitted a rate case seeking a substantial increase, which translates to an 11% hike for residential customers. Nessel's response was swift and to the point. "Just three months after the MPSC approved a $217 million rate hike, DTE is already back, asking for nearly $600 million more from ratepayers still very dissatisfied with the quality of service they receive," she said. The Michigan Department of Attorney General's scrutiny is grounded in a track record of savings for Michigan consumers—an impressive tally exceeding $3.7 billion in interventions in utility cases.
Earlier in the week, Nessel made her stance clear when she testified before the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). She took on Consumers Energy Company's proposed $248 million gas rate hike, suggesting a nearly 70% cut. Her vigilant eye has been a deterrent for unchecked utility increases, arguing that these rate hikes should not come at the expense of consumers, especially if service improvements are not seen. "At some point, we have to ask how long utility companies like DTE and Consumers Energy will be allowed to treat customer bills and our energy rates like a blank check," Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is quoted as saying in a statement.
