How to take control of your business's winter heating bill
Understand and monitor your winter energy use
Winter heating can account for about 50% of your monthly energy bill, which is why your costs are higher during the coldest months of the year. No matter how you heat your space, understanding what's behind your bill is the first step to managing your costs this winter.
Review your usage and rates
See how your rate plan, energy habits and heating demand affect what you pay each month so you can find ways to control your costs.
Track your energy usage
Review your usage history to see how your costs shift with the temperature and pinpoint what’s driving your bill this winter.
What's driving your high winter costs
Did you know? Space heaters use a lot of electricity. To use them safely and efficiently, close doors to contain heat and power it off when you leave the room.
Support for your business
We have programs and support available to help you with your winter energy costs.
Explore payment programs
Find payment program options that keep your business on track and your costs manageable.
Contact us for help
Have a question about your bill or need other support? Our business team can assist you with billing and help you find solutions.
The sooner you connect with us, the more we can help. Please submit your concern and someone from our team will follow up.
Resources to help your business save this winter
Take advantage of resources that can help you lower energy costs now and throughout the year.
Know your gas options
Michiganders may choose the natural gas supplier that best fits their needs or take no action and DTE will continue to supply their gas with a regulated rate.
Find energy rebates
Our rebate program helps offset the cost of energy efficient upgrades so your business can start saving sooner.
Get an assessment
A qualified advisor will visit your business, identify energy-saving opportunities and provide a personalized report with available rebates.
Keeping you safe is our top priority
Know what to do and what to watch for so you can keep your home safe all winter long.
Gas leaks
Smell or suspect a gas leak? Leave immediately. Call 911 and then call our Gas Leak Hotline at (800) 947-5000. This is a free service, available 24/7.
Carbon monoxide
If you suspect a carbon monoxide leak, leave immediately and get into fresh air. Call 911 and seek medical help if necessary.
Space heaters
Using a space heater? Keep it at least three feet from anything flammable and never leave it running unattended.
Frequently asked questions about winter energy bills
Setting your thermostat between 68 and 70 degrees during occupied hours and lowering it to 60 to 65 degrees when the space is empty is a smart starting point.* Even lowering it one degree can reduce your annual heating costs around 1% to 3%. A programmable thermostat makes it easy to automate.
*Recommendation provided by the District of Columbia Department of Energy & Environment.
Yes. You can switch through the Gas Choice program at any time, but check your current supplier contract first for any terms or enrollment windows. DTE will continue to deliver your gas and handle maintenance, metering, safety and billing no matter who your supplier is.
Eligibility depends on your service type (gas, electric or both) and the upgrades you're considering. The easiest way to find out is to start with the Small Business Assessment or browse the rebate programs page to see what’s available.
Review your usage history and compare it to the same time last year. If something looks off, contact us right away. The sooner you reach out, the more we can help.
Your base rate doesn’t change in winter, but costs can shift with higher usage on a Time of Day or demand-based electric rates. Reviewing your plan helps ensure you’re on the most cost-effective rate for your business.