DTE Prepares for Electric Rate Hike Request in Spring 2027

Utility company notifies state officials of upcoming application for rate increases to take effect in 2027.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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DTE Energy, which provides electricity to much of Southeast Michigan, has notified state officials that it will file an application in April 2026 for electric rate increases to take effect in March 2027. The amount of the requested rate hike has not been made public yet. This comes just a week after DTE's latest rate increase of 4.6% for residential customers, which was approved to take effect on March 5, 2026.

Why it matters

DTE's repeated rate hike requests have drawn criticism from Michigan's Attorney General, who says the utility's actions are impacting affordability and reliability for customers. The state's Public Service Commission will have to weigh DTE's justification for the new rate increase against the impact on ratepayers.

The details

DTE says the upcoming rate hike request is necessary to continue investing in the electric system and improve reliability, which the company claims has improved significantly in recent years. However, critics argue the utility is prioritizing profits and shareholder dividends over affordable and reliable service for Michigan families.

  • DTE notified state officials of the upcoming rate hike application in February 2026.
  • DTE plans to file the formal application for the 2027 rate increases in April 2026.
  • The new electric rates are expected to take effect in March 2027, pending approval.

The players

DTE Energy

An electric utility company that provides power to much of Southeast Michigan.

Michigan Public Service Commission

The state regulatory agency that will review and approve or deny DTE's rate hike application.

Dana Nessel

The Michigan Attorney General who has criticized DTE's repeated rate increase requests and their impact on affordability and reliability for customers.

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What’s next

The Michigan Public Service Commission will review DTE's formal rate hike application, which is expected to be filed in April 2026. A decision on the requested 2027 rate increases is not expected until early 2027.

The takeaway

DTE's repeated rate hike requests highlight the ongoing tension between utility companies' need to invest in infrastructure and the impact of rising electricity costs on Michigan families. The state's regulatory process will have to balance these competing priorities as it evaluates DTE's justification for the new rate increase.