DTE Energy Charging Forward program offers advisory services for those transitioning to electric fleets

DTE Energy announced a new side of its electric vehicle charging program, Charging Forward eFleets, this week, with the addition of advisory services to help Michigan-based businesses transition to electric fleets and navigate rebate offerings.

This side of the Charging Forward program — originally launched in 2019 — will last five years and operate on a $13.4 million budget. It offers charger rebates of up to $2,500 for Level 2 ports, up to $5,000 for Opportunity Chargers and up to $70,000 for Direct Current Fast Chargers (DCFCs). Along the way, DTE’s advisors will assist businesses as they onboard electric fleets and integrate charger load with the electric company’s distribution system.

“Our goal with eFleets is to bring operational savings and sustainability to fleet operators while also bringing the benefits of transportation electrification to society at large,” Ben Burns, director of electric marketing at DTE Energy, said. “Our new services will reduce barriers to eFleet adoption for our commercial, industrial and business customers and provide opportunities to pilot integration with new clean technologies.”

Previously, the Charging Forward program emphasized three concepts: education and outreach, residential rebates and business incentives. To date, the program has resulted in the approval of 921 Level 2 ports and 88 DCFCs. eFleets will also add a seven part effort to the mix for business customers: 

1. Operational assessment of current fleet;
2. Comprehensive list of available EVs customized for their use case;
3. Personalized fuel and load forecasts;
4. Applicable chargers;
5. Grid connection assistance;
6. Financial modelling; and
7. Charger rebates support.