Natural Gas Choice
You can select the alternative natural gas supplier of your choice or take no action and continue to get your natural gas supplied by DTE under regulated rates. Regulated rates are those that the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) must review and approve on behalf of customers. The rates of alternative gas suppliers are not regulated, meaning the supplier may charge whatever it chooses, with no MPSC review or approval.
Facts to consider about natural gas choice
Regardless of who you choose as your supplier, DTE will continue to deliver the natural gas to you. DTE will also:
- Maintain the natural gas lines and equipment that lead to your property
- Read the meter at your property
- Perform safety inspections on natural gas equipment and respond to potential gas leaks
- Bill you for your natural gas usage
The Bills Look a Little Different
Natural gas bills have a slightly different look depending on whether your gas is supplied by an alternative gas supplier or by DTE.
If you are using an alternative gas supplier, you will also see a box like this sample on your bill that will compare the price of your supplier to DTE.
Tips for choosing a natural gas supplier
Compare Natural Gas Prices
Visit the MPSC website regularly to compare rates and see a list of suppliers participating in the Gas Customer Choice Program. Customers returning to DTE from an alternative gas supplier are required to remain with DTE for at least 12 months.
Lock-in Your Account
If you’re happy with your DTE gas service or alternative gas supplier, you can choose to lock-in your account. Our lock-in feature stops anyone from changing your gas supplier without your consent. Simply call DTE at (800) 477-4747 and ask to lock-in your supplier. Once activated, your account cannot be switched to another gas supplier unless you call DTE and request to remove the lock. This is a free service.
Beware of Imposters
We will not contact you to offer special deals on rates – like lower rates for a limited time – and we do not solicit by phone or at your door. If you receive a call or encounter a door-to-door salesperson detailing a discount, please know that this is not DTE and may be an alternative gas supplier offering an unregulated rate.
DTE's gas buying strategy
Cost Efficiency
DTE buys gas year-round, often when prices are at their lowest, up to three years in advance of when you actually use it. Our team is always looking for the most economical option available that will provide our customers with reliable gas service.
We use our unique underground reservoirs to store gas we buy in advance, so it’s ready when you need it.
This buying method keeps our gas prices stable and easier to budget for during times when you use more natural gas.
At-Price Natural Gas
As a regulated energy company, we don’t mark up the cost of the actual gas you use – you pay what we paid when we bought it.
Regulated Rates
DTE Energy’s rates are regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). Alternative gas supplier rates are not.