As part of its extensive infrastructure improvement program, DTE Energy opens a new gas facility in Walker, Michigan

New Three Mile Station supports the company’s commitment to replacing older pipe with safer, more reliable and environmentally friendly materials

 

WALKER, Mich., Aug. 25, 2021 – Over the next three years, DTE Energy will invest $110 million to install 92 miles of new pipe and upgrade 9,000 meters in the Grand Rapids area alone. The effort, part of the company’s Gas Renewal Program, will further strengthen the reliability of natural gas delivery and significantly reduce methane emissions. The company’s Three Mile Road Station, officially opening on Aug. 25, 2021, will serve as a hub for the Gas Renewal Program operations across western and northern Michigan.

The new 19,000-square-foot DTE Gas campus will employ 34 field crew members, 21 office staff and more than 100 contract workers who will perform year-round service in support of the Gas Renewal Program.

“The opening of this facility is part of our multi-year, statewide Gas Renewal Program in which we’re investing $3.5 billion to replace cast-iron and steel pipe with safer, more reliable and environmentally friendly materials,” said Matt Paul, president and chief operating officer at DTE Gas. “The Three Mile Station will help us work more efficiently and collaboratively throughout greater Michigan as we move forward in completing this important work.”

The replacement pipe installed through the Gas Renewal Program is made from durable, flexible plastic that helps reduce methane emissions. The Gas Renewal Program is a key component in DTE’s commitment to achieve net zero carbon emissions across its electric and gas operations by 2050. When completed, the Gas Renewal Program will reduce methane emissions by an amount equivalent to taking 100,000 cars off the road. 

“The new pipe will also support our ability to transport new sources of energy as technology advances,” explained Paul. “Our infrastructure already transports renewable natural gas created by capturing methane from landfills, dairy farms and wastewater treatment plant byproducts. In fact, renewable natural gas is currently offered as part of our voluntary Natural Gas Balance program designed to help our customers reduce their carbon footprint.”

The project represents DTE’s proactive approach to serving customers in the growing area. The nearby Wealthy Station will continue to serve as a primary service center for gas operations and together with the Three Mile Road facility will support DTE’s mission to provide safe, reliable, affordable gas to area customers.

“We are proud to welcome DTE Energy to Walker,” said Walker Mayor Gary Carey. “As an investor, an employer and an essential energy provider, we consider DTE a strong and valuable community partner.”

Customers interested in joining DTE Gas on its net zero greenhouse gas emissions journey by reducing their own carbon footprint are invited to join our voluntary Natural Gas Balance program. Participants in this program can offset their greenhouse gas emissions from natural gas use through carbon offsets and renewable natural gas. Customers can learn more or join the program by visiting www.dteenergy.com/naturalgasbalance.

 

About DTE Energy

DTE Energy 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 2.2 million customers in Southeast Michigan and a natural gas company serving 1.3 million customers in Michigan. The DTE portfolio includes energy businesses focused on power and industrial projects, renewable natural gas, and energy marketing and trading. As an environmental leader, DTE utility operations will reduce carbon dioxide and methane emissions by more than 80% by 2040 to produce cleaner energy while keeping it safe, reliable and affordable. DTE Electric and Gas aspire to achieve net zero carbon and greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. DTE is committed to serving with its energy through volunteerism, education and employment initiatives, philanthropy and economic progress. Information about DTE is available at dteenergy.com, empoweringmichigan.com, twitter.com/dte_energy and facebook.com/dteenergy.

 

 

For further information, members of the media may contact:

Colleen Rosso, DTE Energy, 313.235.5555