Rate Increase Approved For DTE Electric Customers

DETROIT (AP) — Michigan utility regulators have approved a rate increase for DTE Energy's electric customers — amounting to roughly $6 more a month for residents — but less than what the utility sought.

The Michigan Public Service Commission on Thursday approved the $273 million increase, about $203 million less than the Detroit-based utility requested. Commissioners also denied DTE's request to assess a charge for customers who have installed renewable energy projects.

The MPSC authorized DTE to spend $283 million through 2021 on tree-trimming efforts. DTE previously reached an agreement with regulators to clear power line hazards behind Detroit properties after a woman was electrocuted by a downed wire last year.

The rate increase — nearly 9% for residents and roughly 4% for businesses — is effective May 9.

DTE says in a statement the increase will pay for new and updated equipment and technology.