DTE Energy is quickly becoming a leader in the field of “deconstruction.” Deconstruction is similar to demolition; however, this new and innovative process focuses on reuse and recycling of materials.

Our first deconstruction project focused on a defunct 20,000 square-foot Detroit Edison office and warehouse space in New Hudson, Michigan. Nearly 100 percent of the materials from the building were re-used or recycled. More than 600 pounds of material was sent to a waste-to-energy recovery center. The only waste sent to the landfill from this entire project was the asbestos.

The process eliminated our challenges concerning dust control and produced a totally “clean” site ready for sale and redevelopment. We are now incorporating deconstruction into our demolition bidding process and have been contacted by other local corporations interested in learning from our experience.