Michigan winter temperatures expected to drive up energy use

Rhea-AI Summary

DTE Energy is preparing customers for expected increases in winter energy usage by providing resources and tips for managing consumption and costs. The company, which recently earned top scores in Customer Satisfaction with Business Natural Gas Service in the Midwest, buys natural gas in advance when costs are lower to maintain affordability. Key recommendations include setting thermostats to 68 degrees during the day, which can save 3% on heating costs per degree lowered, and sealing air leaks to save up to 10% on annual energy costs. DTE offers financial assistance programs and encourages customers facing payment difficulties to contact them at 800-477-4747 for support options.

Positive

• Proactive natural gas purchasing strategy to maintain cost efficiency
• Top ranking in J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Gas Utility Business Customer Satisfaction Study for Midwest region
• Implementation of customer assistance programs for financial hardship cases

Negative

• Expected increase in energy usage and associated costs for winter season

DTE Energy is connecting its customers to resources and information to help them manage use and keep bills affordable

DETROIT, Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Forecasts for the coming winter suggest temperatures may not dip as low as in recent years, but energy use is still expected to increase as it does each winter. DTE Energy is reaching out to customers to share tips on managing use and getting assistance if they’re having trouble paying bills. This effort comes just after DTE earned the top score in Customer Satisfaction with Business Natural Gas Service in the Midwest^* in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Gas Utility Business Customer Satisfaction Study.

While DTE works throughout the year to keep energy affordable — buying natural gas in advance of when it’s needed, often when costs are lower — the company is encouraging customers to take simple steps now to make bills even more manageable this winter. For instance, customers can:

• Adjust thermostats by setting them to 68 degrees during the day and lowering temperatures a few degrees at night while sleeping. Customers can save about 3% on heating costs for each degree they lower their thermostats.
• Seal air leaks around doors and windows to prevent drafts and energy loss, which can save up to 10% on annual energy costs.
• Open the blinds or drapes to let the sun in, and close them at night to hold heat in.
• Find additional tips for winter savings at dteenergy.com/staywarm.

“Making sure our customers have the safe, reliable and affordable energy they need this winter is our top priority,” said Bob Richard, president and COO, DTE Gas. “Our customers pay what we pay for natural gas, since we do not mark up the cost, and we're committed to helping them further through raising awareness on energy efficiency and by connecting them to financial assistance if needed. We want to help keep our customers warm and safe throughout the winter and year-round.”

Following energy efficiency tips can help keep energy bills affordable, but DTE understands that customers experiencing financial challenges may need extra assistance for the energy they need during a cold winter. The company offers this important advice to those in need of help:

• Customers should reach out to DTE at 800-477-4747 as soon as they know they may have trouble paying an upcoming bill. The sooner the customer reaches out, the better DTE can support their needs.

• Customers may also be eligible for protection from service interruptions based on income and other factors. Explore these options at dteenergy.com/help.

• Customers can access additional support with energy, food, shelter and other necessities. A call to 211 can connect those in need to agencies offering further assistance.

*DTE Energy received the highest score in the Midwest region of the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Gas Utility Business Satisfaction Study of customers’ satisfaction nationally among business customers in the U.S. Visit jdpower.com/awards for more details.

About DTE Energy
DTE Energy (NYSE:DTE) is a Detroit-based diversified energy company involved in the development and management of energy-related businesses and services nationwide. Its operating units include an electric company serving 2.3 million customers in Southeast Michigan and a natural gas company serving 1.3 million customers across Michigan. The DTE portfolio also includes energy businesses focused on custom energy solutions, renewable energy generation, and energy marketing and trading. DTE has continued to accelerate its carbon reduction goals to meet aggressive targets and is committed to serving with its energy through volunteerism, education and employment initiatives, philanthropy, emission reductions and economic progress. Information about DTE is available at dteenergy.com, empoweringmichigan.com, x.com/dte_energy and facebook.com/dteenergy. 

FAQ

What energy savings can DTE customers achieve by adjusting their thermostat?

DTE customers can save approximately 3% on heating costs for each degree they lower their thermostats below 68 degrees.

How much can DTE customers save by sealing air leaks around doors and windows?

DTE customers can save up to 10% on annual energy costs by sealing air leaks around doors and windows.

What number should DTE customers call for payment assistance?

DTE customers experiencing payment difficulties should call 800-477-4747 for assistance options.

What recognition did DTE receive in the J.D. Power 2024 study?

DTE received the highest score in Customer Satisfaction with Business Natural Gas Service in the Midwest region in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Gas Utility Business Customer Satisfaction Study.