Saline Township residents set to protest massive data center project
News ClipWXYZ Channel 7·Saline, Washtenaw County, MI·12/1/2025
Saline Township residents are protesting a massive 1.4 Megawatt, 200-acre data center project proposed by DTE Energy to serve OpenAI and Oracle. Residents are concerned about the impact on the power grid, property values, pollution, and groundwater usage. The township is also worried about regulating noise, traffic, and water usage for the project. Residents feel the project is being rushed without proper public input.
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Gov: Saline Township, Michigan Public Service Commission
Saline Township residents are protesting a massive 1.4 Megawatt data center project planned by DTE on over 200 acres of farmland. The project, which would be the largest economic investment in Michigan's history, is supported by Governor Whitmer but opposed by many locals who fear its impact on property values, the environment, and energy costs. DTE has requested fast-track approval from the Michigan Public Service Commission, bypassing a public hearing, which has drawn criticism from the state Attorney General. While the project would create thousands of jobs, residents feel they are being "bulldozed" and are planning protests. The township has negotiated some protections, but many remain concerned about the data center's long-term effects on their community.