LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – The Michigan Public Service Commission has unanimously approved DTE Energy’s request to move forward with special contracts to supply power to a massive data center planned near Saline Township, despite overwhelming opposition from the public and the state’s top consumer protector.
The approval allows DTE to serve a proposed 1.4-gigawatt data center under an ex parte process, meaning the commission did not hold a contested case hearing that would have allowed cross-examination and expanded review.
More than 5,500 public comments were submitted ahead of the vote, with many speakers warning the project could strain Michigan’s power grid, threaten farmland, and leave ratepayers exposed if the data center shuts down or relocates.
“You must not allow this proposed Saline data center or any other future data center to be used as a loophole for DTE to not meet its clean energy obligations,” said Michael W., a DTE ratepayer, during public comment.
Others questioned whether DTE can reliably serve such a large load while improving service for existing customers.
“There’s not even enough power right now for us to run our AC in the summer,” said McKenzie Walker of Linden Township. “And we’re expected to believe they can increase their capacity significantly enough to supply a data center.”
Several speakers also raised concerns that approving the contracts effectively commits the state to large-scale energy development without publicly addressing farmland and land-use impacts.
Attorney General Dana Nessel sharply criticized the commission’s decision, calling the application “secret” and warning that redacted contracts prevent meaningful oversight. In a statement, Nessel said her office is reviewing the commission’s order and considering next steps to protect ratepayers.
The commission maintains that conditions attached to the contracts will ensure DTE, not customers, bears the financial risk and that the approval does not weaken Michigan’s clean energy requirements.
Opponents say the decision sets a precedent as data center proposals expand statewide, increasing pressure on regulators to balance economic development with transparency and public accountability.
