DTE Energy, along with Related Companies, Oracle, and OpenAI, is planning a large hyperscale data center in Saline Township, Michigan, and is seeking to speed up approval by skipping public hearings. The facility would use as much energy as over a million homes and could affect local noise, light, and water use. Some residents, like Preston Dyer, oppose the project, while others, like Jeff Quick, note potential job opportunities but have concerns about resources. DTE said it wants to start construction quickly "given the sizable affordability benefits for our customers, as well as the economic impact the project will have," according to WXYZ.
State Representative Morgan Foerman, representing the area of the proposed data center, said she wants detailed answers from the project’s proponents, as reported by ClickOnDetroit. Local groups, including the Sierra Club, have raised questions about transparency and potential effects on electricity bills. Bryan Smigielski, the Sierra Club’s clean energy ambassador, emphasized the need for a clear approval process.
The Michigan Public Service Commission is reviewing DTE Energy's request to skip public hearings for its Saline Township data center. Chair Dan Scripps said, "We need to carefully review the proposal and make sure the modeling is correct" to protect existing ratepayers, who could be affected by the project, as mentioned by The Detroit News. A decision is expected by December 5. DTE plans to use battery storage to supply the data center's initial electricity, though questions remain about how the batteries will be charged. DTE says the project will support renewable energy goals without adding costs for customers.
