LANSING, Mich. — Environmental groups are speaking out about a proposal before the Michigan Public Service Commission, saying it would deter customers from choosing solar energy.
Activists are concerned that, if the rate increase is approved, it could eventually affect the entire state, not just DTE customers.
"We have 24 employees right now and by next year we could have 50. I'm holding back because of the unknown," said Mark Hagerty who owns Michigan Solar Solutions.
"What DTE is proposing is going to hurt people from able to choose to install solar and and wind, as well as it's going to hurt the job creation that this new industry represents," said John Freeman, executive director of the Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association.
In a statement, Peter Ternes with DTE said, "Today’s activities undertaken by a solar industry business coalition are misrepresenting DTE’s rate case as if its only focus is solar energy.
DTE’s case, under review by commission, in fact covers the cost of a multi-year infrastructure upgrade and hardening program to bring safe, reliable, affordable energy to Michigan homes and businesses.
DTE Energy is overwhelmingly in favor of renewable energy and will more than double its renewable energy capacity by 2022.
We are the largest producer of renewable energy in the state.
Right now, the company operates one of the largest solar farms in the Midwest and is preparing to commission the largest wind park in Michigan."
