Customer Generated Electric

Important Announcement

The Michigan Public Service Commission has directed DTE to update its program for customers generating solar or wind energy to more accurately reflect their energy use. Current net metering customers will remain on their existing plan for 10 years from the date the property began in the program. See how the new program works.

Let's combine our energy for a smarter, more efficient tomorrow. DTE Energy has the technology, expertise and resources to assist customers with a variety of solar and renewable energy initiatives.

Thinking of going solar? Check out these important things to consider.

If you are installing 20 kW (kilowatt) or less of renewable resource capacity, please see our Interconnection Process for connecting customer-owned generation to the electrical system. Please follow all the steps to ensure the safety and reliability of your renewable generation.

Customer Generated Electric FAQ

Contact Us

Billing Hotline
For Net Metering billing questions, please contact: 800.482.8720.
(For all other billing questions, contact: 800.477.4747)

Interconnection Hotline
Contact us now regarding new net metering installations, current installations, or any questions on the Interconnection process: 313.235.4333

How can I estimate how large a wind or solar generator I can install and still qualify for Net Metering or Distributed Generation Program?

Net Metering and Distributed Generation both use the same sizing requirements. The general requirement is that the generator be sized so the annual generation in kWh does not exceed the annual kWh usage of the rate the generator is serving. Annual generation per kW of installed generation capacity varies by technology (e.g., solar versus wind) and by other factors. A general guideline for estimating the maximum solar generator size in kW is to divide the annual usage of the rate schedule being paired with Net Metering or Distributed Generation in kWh by 1,139 (solar generator size in kW = annual usage in kWh ÷ 1,139).

Please note that the above sizing guidelines are for estimating purposes only. The actual project sizing will be determined through the application process.

Will DTE pay me for excess energy that I generate and outflow to the grid?

Customers generating electricity from renewable energy resources, which include solar, wind, hydro, biomass, geothermal energy, municipal solid waste and landfill gas produced from municipal solid waste, can be compensated for their excess generation that is outflowed to DTE’s grid under several DTE programs depending on the size of the generation. Customers with on-site renewable generation of 150 kW or less can qualify for service under DTE’s Distributed Generation Program or may qualify for service under Net Metering, if applied for on or before May 8, 2019. Customers operating a methane digestor system of 150 kW up to 550 kW may also qualify for service under Distributed Generation. For customers that do not meet the size or other qualification requirements of Distributed Generation and have further questions, please contact 313.235.4333.

What is DTE doing to support solar and other renewable energy solutions?

As Michigan’s clean energy leader, DTE is on pace to triple its renewable capacity in the next 10 years and has developed some of the largest wind and solar installations in the Midwest. To date, the company has driven investment of $2.8 billion in Michigan-made renewables and expects to double that in the next five years. DTE Energy has set a goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050. In other words, electric use by Michigan customers of the future will not contribute to climate change.

Does DTE require Net Metering or Distributed Generation customers to install battery storage?

No, DTE does not require customers to install battery storage.

Do I need to notify DTE if I am planning to add a battery storage system?

Yes, it is important for DTE to confirm your battery will not interact with DTE’s distribution system. Both new and existing customers adding battery storage need to notify the Company to update your system information and help ensure you maintain your eligibility for service under net metering or distributed generation. To submit a new application with the addition of a battery storage system, please visit DTE’s PowerClerk site at https://dteinterconnect.powerclerk.com/MvcAccount/Login. For additional information or questions, please contact 313.235.4333.

Why is my battery storage not permitted to discharge to the grid?

Customers are only allowed discharge energy back to the DTE Electric’s distribution system under limited circumstances and with specific authorization by the Company. Special pricing and operating considerations provided under Net Metering or Distributed Generation allow customers to discharge energy back to the DTE Electric’s distribution system but only from an approved renewable energy resource. Battery storage systems do not qualify as a renewable energy resource and therefore are not permitted to discharge energy back to DTE Electric’s distribution system.

Why is adding battery storage different for customers taking service under Net Metering or Distributed Generation?

Customers taking service under Net Metering or Distributed Generation are authorized to operate their renewable generation in parallel with the Company’s service and can export their excess generated energy onto the Company’s distribution system

What is a REC?

A REC is a Renewable Energy Credit, a tradable environmental commodity that represents 1 MWh (megawatt-hour) of electricity generated from a renewable source.

Do I need a DTE Electric meter on my generator to sell my RECs?

The purchaser will likely want a billing quality meter, such as DTE Electric’s, to measure generator output. If you choose to sell your RECs to another party, DTE Electric will allow you to use its billing quality meter, maintained to company standards, for the purpose of billing the person purchasing your RECs.

I own or am considering purchasing an emergency generator for my business. Can I sell back the energy I don't use?

If you have a generator that is greater than 250 kW, then you could qualify for the Dispersed Generation tariff (Rider 13) and receive voluntary dispersed generation payments for operating your generation at the request of the Company.