DETROIT, Nov. 3, 2025 — DTE Energy today released the 2025 recipients of the company’s Emerging Technology Fund (ETF). Since its launch in 2023, the ETF has supported innovators across Michigan who are breaking down barriers to electric vehicle (EV) adoption and driving real results — from expanding charging in city neighborhoods to advancing grid resilience and battery storage solutions in local communities. DTE is helping power Michigan’s transportation electrification plans through the ETF by investing in new technologies and projects that help Michiganders make the switch to an EV.
"Michigan has always been a place where innovation drives progress and DTE is proud to back these organizations,” said Yvette Johnson, vice president of Electric Sales & Marketing, DTE Energy. “From the first curbside chargers in Detroit to commercial-scale battery energy storage made from second-life EV batteries, these projects show what’s possible when public and private partners work together to reimagine mobility for everyone."
The 2025 ETF recipients include:
- Volt Harbor: launching a pilot program to develop an affordable, commercial-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) made from retired, second-life EV batteries to store power during peak times. “DTE Energy’s support of startup businesses has been vital to driving innovation in Michigan,” said Al Avestruz, co-founder, Volt Harbor, Inc. “We are thrilled to be working with DTE.”
- ev.energy: piloting managed EV charging at multifamily properties, optimizing charging for the lowest price periods, and reducing strain on the electricity grid. “The DTE Emerging Technology Fund is a game-changer for accelerating EV adoption. It directly supports our mission to make the benefits of smart charging accessible to all,” said Nick Woolley, CEO & co-founder, ev.energy. “With this grant, we'll be able to bring our managed charging platform to multi-family properties across Michigan, helping drivers save money on charging while also reducing the strain on the grid.”
- Voltpost: retrofitting lampposts into level 2 EV chargers to deliver affordable and convenient charging without the cost or disruption of traditional infrastructure. “DTE’s Emerging Technology Fund is accelerating the clean mobility transition right here in Michigan,” said Jeff Prosserman, CEO and co-founder, Voltpost. “By transforming streetlights into EV chargers, we’re making charging more accessible, affordable and convenient for Michigan drivers. This collaboration is a model for how utilities and innovators can work together to decarbonize transportation and strengthen local economies.”
- it’s electric: installing one of Detroit’s first managed EV charging programs to reduce electric load impact in collaboration with Bedrock Properties. “DTE’s Emerging Tech Fund is helping Detroit become a national leader in deploying cutting edge EV charger technology,” said Nathan King, CEO, it’s electric. “From the country’s very first building-powered EV chargers to new curbside chargers, DTE and its electric are driving innovation while making Detroit a great and accessible destination for EV drivers to live, work, and enjoy the city.”
- Forth: supporting the AMP EV carsharing program that connects local neighborhoods with affordable carsharing services. “Clean transportation means more than fewer tailpipes – it means opportunity,” said Jeff Allen, Executive Director, Forth Mobility. “With support from DTE, this EV carshare connects Detroit and Ann Arbor residents to jobs, healthcare and education, while cutting pollution in historically underserved communities and low-income neighborhoods.”
- Metro Consulting Associates at Grosse Ile Airport: installing mobile, EV fast-charging units capable of charging multiple vehicle types and is part of the airport’s broader effort to enhance infrastructure and promote flexible EV charging solutions. “With support from DTE Energy’s Emerging Technology Fund, we’re advancing our commitment to sustainability and innovation at Grosse Ile Airport,” said Janel MacNee, Manager at Grosse Ile Airport. “These new mobile fast-charging units will expand access to clean energy technology and provide flexible charging options for multiple vehicles types here at our airport.”
DTE’s Emerging Tech Fund is a great opportunity for organizations to advance projects in transportation electrification. Applications for 2026 are being accepted now through end of January 2026 at: www.dteenergy.com/emergingtechfund.
For further information, members of the media may contact:
Ryan Lowry, DTE Energy, (313) 235-5555