Detroit-based DTE Energy announced today it donated $2.5 million to assist low-income residents in the city of Detroit and Southeast Michigan.
The donation is expected to help encourage enrollment of nearly 3,000 customers in DTE’s Low-Income Self-Sufficiency Plan (LSP), aimed at providing relief to residents who are struggling to pay their energy bills.
Detroit experienced its eighth-hottest July on record, with nine days of temperatures reaching at least 90 degrees. Extreme temperatures – which have continued into August – have increased energy demand and financial strain for low-income residents.
“DTE Energy invests significant resources into ensuring our customers have access to safe, reliable energy in the communities where we live and serve,” said Trevor F. Lauer, president and chief operating officer, DTE Electric for DTE Energy. “Through this $2.5 million donation, we will help protect our customers from the dangers of extreme temperatures – and the financial impact associated with them – during the summer and winter months. We will also deliver ongoing services and education to empower these customers to reduce energy-related expenses in the short and long term.”
To qualify for the program, folks must:
- Have an income equal to or less than 150 percent Federal Poverty Level (FPL) Guidelines
- Their energy usage (electric and gas) over the last 12 months is comparable with average annual usage for a residential customer
The $2.5 million donation will be administered by the United Way for Southeastern Michigan for enrollment in DTE’s LSP. The Low-Income Self Sufficiency Plan offers affordable fixed monthly payments based on customer income and energy usage.
More than 35,000 residents were enrolled in DTE Energy’s LSP during the 2015-2016 program year. For individuals seeking utility assistance this year, United Way will begin the LSP enrollment process on September 1.
If you’d like to get enrolled or know someone who would, here’s the link.
