‘No secret deals’: Protest targets DTE’s fast-moving Saline Township data center request
News ClipPlanet Detroit·Saline, Washtenaw County, MI·12/2/2025
Over 100 protesters gathered in downtown Saline, Michigan to oppose DTE Energy's efforts to advance a $7 billion data center project in Saline Township without official hearings. The protesters are concerned about potential cost impacts to residential ratepayers and the possibility of 'stranded assets' if tech companies leave before grid investments are paid off. The Michigan Attorney General previously called out significant redactions to the data center contracts submitted by DTE to the Michigan Public Service Commission, leading protesters to carry signs saying 'No Secret Deals'.
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Gov: Michigan Public Service Commission, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel
Protesters have gathered in Saline, Michigan to voice opposition to DTE Energy's efforts to fast-track approval of electric contracts for a $7 billion data center project. The protesters argue the project could impact utility rates for residential customers, which DTE denies. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has raised concerns about significant redactions in the data center contracts submitted to the state utility regulator, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). The MPSC announced a virtual hearing to add "transparency" to evaluating DTE's proposed contracts, but protesters want a full contested case process that would allow for testimony from various stakeholders. Opponents say the data center's large power demands could make it difficult for Michigan to meet its climate goals, depending on the energy sources used. The MPSC will decide whether to approve DTE's contracts for the project.