DTE Energy adds three wind parks, more than 400 MW of clean energy to Michigan

Operations began at three new Michigan wind parks this week, including what are now the two largest in Michigan, bolstering DTE Energy’s clean energy offerings by more than 400 MW of capacity and sourcing new options for its MIGreenPower program.

As they come online, the Isabella County-based Isabella I and Isabella II become the largest sources of wind energy in the state, bringing 136 turbines and a capacity of 383 MW with them. The third addition, known as Fairbanks Wind, is based in the Upper Peninsula, with 21 turbines and a capacity of 72 MW added to Delta County. All will participate in DTE’s MIGreenPower voluntary renewable energy program to provide energy to major Michigan companies and institutions.

“As the state’s leading producer of renewable energy, DTE is committed to increasing its generation from clean energy sources, including wind and solar,” Trevor Lauer, president of DTE’s electric company, said. “Bringing these new wind parks online helps us deliver on our commitment to reduce carbon emissions with the goal of achieving net zero by 2050. Our short- and long-term plans include continued investment in clean energy projects, including some of the largest solar projects in Michigan. Our goal is to get as clean as we can, as fast as we can.”

While DTE plans to build another six clean energy projects by the end of 2022, it already offers more than 1,760 MW of clean energy to Michigan. It’s enough to power approximately 670,000 homes, but next year, it hopes to have enough renewable energy capacity to provide around 2,700 MW. It now has 18 wind parks and 31 solar farms in operation, supplying customers like Ford Motor Company, General Motors, and the University of Michigan.

Customers who join MIGreenPower can attribute more of their energy from wind and solar sources to reduce carbon footprints and promote renewable energy development. The program currently has 28,000 residential and 300 business customers.