Source Booksellers stays true to its roots while investing in a sustainable future with MIGreenPower
Everything you need to know about heating season
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PRESIDENT’S LETTER
A CLOSER LOOK Here’s what you need to know about natural gas leaks to stay safe.
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INDUSTRY INSIDER Sign up for the Michigan Energy Efficiency Conference and Exhibit.
WINTER SAVINGS Try these low-cost maintenance tips to stay warm and save energy.
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DID YOU KNOW? Simplify your energy costs with DTE’s BudgetWise Billing®
FEATURES
REBATES Tune up your boiler or furnace without breaking the bank.
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ENERGY JOURNEY Sustainability-focused Source Booksellers joins MIGreenPower.
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UNDERSTANDING YOUR BILL The statemandated EWR Surcharge funds energy-saving programs for DTE customers.
INFRASTRUCTURE Upgrades to pipelines and meter relocations have multiple benefits.
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INSTANT DISCOUNTS DTE partners with Gold Star Products to help customers save on energy-efficient food service equipment.
INSULATION Avoid wasted energy with water heater insulation blankets.
PROGRAMS Power up your savings with DTE’s energy efficiency programs.
5 QUESTIONS
As cold weather envelops Michigan, learn everything you need to know about heating season.
STARTING 2025 OFF STRONG
As we step into the new year, many of us are filled with a fresh sense of beginning, embracing new goals with the hope of making this year even better than the last. That’s precisely the mindset DTE is adopting as we enter 2025!
DTE is already starting the year off on a high, as business customers ranked us “#1 in Customer Satisfaction with Business Natural Gas Service in the Midwest” in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Gas Utility Business Customer Satisfaction Study. On behalf of the entire DTE Gas team, I thank you. Every day, we strive to provide the safe, reliable and affordable natural gas service you deserve and rely on.
Customers placed DTE Gas on top in J.D. Power’s Price score factor. I’m pleased to share DTE Gas’s rates are among the lowest in Michigan, which we achieve by buying natural gas throughout the year — often before it is needed, when it is more affordable — and storing it underground so it’s ready when you need it most. On top of that, we don’t mark up the cost of natural gas, meaning you pay what we paid for it. These factors combine to keep prices affordable even during the coldest months of the year.
DTE’s corporate citizenship efforts were also singled out by business customers as best in the Midwest region. We make it a priority to foster community involvement throughout our company, and in 2023 alone, nearly 4,000 employees volunteered more than 75,000 hours with 862 nonprofit organizations throughout Michigan.
As we look forward to this upcoming business year, I’d like to reaffirm our commitment to providing excellent service for you, your employees and your customers. We know natural gas plays a pivotal role in supporting small businesses across Michigan as a cost-efficient and reliable energy source. Whether you’re heating your premises, powering essential equipment, or ensuring a comfortable environment for your customers and employees, DTE Gas is ready to meet your needs efficiently so you can focus more on growth and less on energy expenses. We truly value the trust that nearly 90,000 businesses across the state place in us, and we will continue to invest in our system to keep meeting your needs and helping Michigan’s economies grow. That’s our focus for 2025 so you can spend your 2025 thriving.
Thank you for your business, and here’s to the new year!
Sincerely,
Bob Richard President and Chief Operating Officer, DTE Gas
and
EDITOR
Anne Santori
EnergySmarts for Michigan Business welcomes your comments. Send inquiries, questions or comments to: EnergySmarts for Michigan Business 1590 WCB DTE Energy One Energy Plaza Detroit, MI 48226-9952 or email EnergySmartsMI@dteenergy.com
For a free subscription to EnergySmarts for Michigan Business, subscribe online at dteenergy.com/subscribebiz.
Your guide to natural gas safety
Here’s what you need to know about leaks.
Natural gas is an essential resource for many small businesses, powering everything from heating systems to kitchen stoves. While natural gas is a reliable source of energy, safety should always be top priority. Being able to recognize the signs of a natural gas leak and knowing how to respond can protect your business, employees and customers. Here’s your guide to natural gas safety.
Recognizing the signs of a natural gas leak
Detecting a natural gas leak is about tuning into your senses: smell, sight and sound. The most telling sign is a distinct odor like rotten eggs or a burnt match. This is due to a harmless chemical DTE adds to natural gas for easy detection. However, not everyone can smell natural gas for various reasons, including diminished olfactory senses or overpowering scents from candles or air fresheners. So, it’s important to use your other senses. For example, if you hear a hissing or blowing noise, that’s a red flag you can’t afford to ignore.
Keep an eye out for these visual clues:
• Dead or discolored vegetation in otherwise lush areas.
• Unusually dry or hardened soil.
• Continuous bubbling in puddles or damp areas.
• Melted snow in cold conditions or frozen patches of ground during warm weather.
And don’t forget, flames near potential leaks and debris blowing from the ground are serious warnings.
What to do if
you suspect a leak
• Leave the area immediately and find a safe location.
• Once you’re safe, call 911, followed by DTE’s Gas Leak Hotline at 800.947.5000.
• Alert anyone nearby to stay away from the area.
Here are some important “Do Nots” to remember if you suspect a leak:
• Do not attempt to locate the leak or use any equipment.
• Do not smoke, light matches or use open flames.
• Do not use electrical devices, including phones, near the suspected leak.
• Do not reenter the premises until DTE or authorities give the all-clear.
An important note: You can confirm the identity of a DTE employee by asking to see their ID or checking directly with DTE by calling 800.477.4747. If you still feel uneasy after taking these steps, or if the
person is acting strangely or aggressively, call your local police.
Preventing natural gas leaks
Natural gas leaks can happen for a variety of reasons, including aging appliances, improper installations or blocked ventilation. Regular safety checks are crucial.
As a business owner, you can minimize the risk of natural gas leaks by taking several proactive steps. Start by following the manufacturer’s instructions for all natural gas–operated appliances, and always hire qualified professionals for installations and repairs. Keep flammable materials away from natural gas flames to prevent accidents, and regularly clean the burners and surrounding areas.
Additionally, avoid hanging items on natural gas pipes, as this can create hazards. Educate your employees to be vigilant when operating these appliances, fostering a culture of safety throughout your business. By taking these precautions, you can help create a safer space for everyone.
TOOLBOX
For more on natural gas safety and prevention, visit dteenergy.com/gassafety.
HVAC TLC
Tune-ups keep boilers and furnaces running smoothly — and a DTE rebate could help cover the cost.
As the seasons change, so does the demand on a business’s heating system. Just like a vehicle requires routine care, the boilers and furnaces that are crucial to business operations during the winter months also need regular maintenance.
Tune-ups keep boilers and furnaces running at their most optimal to avoid wasted energy, extend the lifespan of equipment and help prevent potential issues down the road that could prove costly for business customers. Put another way, “a heating system that is not tuned up on a regular basis will operate inefficiently,” says Derek Sale, a contractor with D.J. Conley who works closely with DTE’s energy efficiency programs. “After a tune-up, tests should show a reduction in emissions and an increase in efficiency.”
Tune-ups don’t have to break the bank. DTE offers attractive rebates to help offset the cost of a boiler or furnace tune-up, making it easier for businesses to maintain their heating systems.
Here’s what else you need to know about tune-ups.
What a tune-up entails
The frequency at which a business’s boiler or furnace requires maintenance can depend on several factors. That said, under DTE’s energy efficiency programs, qualifying customers are eligible for a rebate every two years.
During the service, a technician will inspect the heater exchange (the main mechanism
that uses combustion gas to warm cold outside air), clean accumulated dust and debris, and help ensure safe operation by checking the wiring and testing for carbon monoxide. Sale adds that boilers specifically also require a Combustion Safety Device Test (CSD-1) at a frequency determined by local code requirements.
How cold weather factors in
When temperatures drop during the wintertime, your business’s furnace or boiler will have to work even harder to warm that cold air and maintain a comfortable indoor environment. Depending on how cold it is outside, your heating equipment may not turn off at all, putting more strain on the system. It’s a good idea to get an oil change before you take a cross-country road trip, and it’s
a smart energy move to have your heating system tuned up before things ratchet up.
Sale offers more technical insight into what happens when the weather cools: “Cold weather causes the humidity and expansion of the air to change, affecting the air-to-gas ratio in the burner in heating equipment like furnaces and boilers. The technician will adjust the ratio of air and gas allowed into the burner. This adjustment will increase efficiency throughout the heating season. Increased efficiency translates directly into reduced amounts of gas used to heat your home or business.” He and his team tend to recommend tune-ups during the fall season, when temperatures are in the 50s and 60s. Don’t worry if you haven’t scheduled that tune-up yet. Later is better than never, and DTE is here to help.
“A heating system that is not tuned up on a regular basis will operate ine ciently. After a tune-up, tests should show a reduction in emissions and an increase in e ciency.”
—DEREK SALE, CONTRACTOR
How to get a DTE rebate
DTE rebates help cover the cost of a furnace or boiler tune-up every other year. To claim a rebate, customers can visit dteenergy.com/smallbusiness to fill out the rebate application. Once DTE collects the required customer and system information, rebate checks are typically mailed within four weeks. Need help or assistance with this step? Give the program team a call at 855.748.2525 or email DTE-small-business@ franklinenergy.com. One of DTE’s dedicated energy professionals would be happy to help.
“My experience with the DTE team has been outstanding,” Sale says. “All team members have been able to answer my
DTE o ers rebates to eligible customers for biennial boiler and furnace tune-ups.
customers’ follow-up questions and assist them with completing their rebate forms. They have also explained the type and amount of the rebates available for current and future projects.”
TOOLBOX
Learn more about boiler tune-ups! Visit: dteenergy.com/smallbusiness
Scan the QR code to learn more about boiler tune-ups.
Power up your savings:
A guide to DTE’s energy efficiency programs
Discover how DTE’s energy-saving solutions can help lower your bills, reduce your carbon footprint and make your business more sustainable.
DTE has a wide variety of energy efficiency programs to help business customers save energy, lower their bill and improve their building’s performance.
“There are a lot of benefits to reducing energy use in a business,” says Carmen Welch, director of DTE’s energy efficiency programs. “In addition to saving on your energy bill and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, it can also help your operations run more efficiently and smoothly while creating a more comfortable atmosphere for employees and customers.”
DTE’s energy efficiency programs are funded by the Energy Waste Reduction Surcharge that customers pay on their monthly bill (see story on page 12). Businesses are encouraged to take advantage of the programs, which include complimentary assessments, rebates and instant discounts, and expertise to become more energy efficient without breaking the bank. In 2023 alone, DTE’s energy efficiency programs delivered $446.5 million in customer savings.
PROGRAMS, continued on page 10
“There are a lot of bene ts to reducing energy use in a business. In addition to saving on your energy bill and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, it can also help your operations run more e ciently and smoothly while creating a more comfortable atmosphere for employees and customers.”
—CARMEN WELCH, DIRECTOR OF DTE’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS
Here’s a look at some of the programs, their benefits and ways to learn more.
Small/Medium Business Energy Assessments
Geared toward customers with less than $120,000 in annual energy costs, this program sends a DTE energy advisor to visit your business for an energy assessment. While on-site, the advisor identifies energy-saving opportunities and may install some energy-efficient equipment on the spot at no cost. Eligible products for this direct installation can include LED light bulbs, smart thermostats, faucet aerators, pipe wrap and more. Then, the energy advisor will leave a report detailing further energy-saving improvements you can make if you would like. dteenergy.com/smallbusiness
Energy Efficiency for Business
This program has rebates available for businesses that want to tackle bigger projects related to lighting, HVAC, refrigeration, data centers and more.
“Rebates are provided based on the amount of energy savings achieved by the project,” Welch says. “Our energy advisors can help you plan your project and apply for the rebates, which can offset the cost of the improvement.”
Whether those projects arise out of an energy
assessment done by a DTE energy advisor or your own construction or remodeling plan, an energy advisor will review your goals and recommend energy-efficient equipment that qualifies for rebates. When your project is complete, the advisor will verify your energy savings and confirm the rebates. Then, your rebate check will arrive in the mail.
dteenergy.com/equipment-rebates
Instant Discounts
Rebates!
Some equipment qualifies for an instant discount at the time of purchase, with no need to fill out paperwork or wait for a rebate check in the mail. DTE’s Instant Discounts programs cover a wide range of energy-efficient food service and HVAC equipment as well as lighting, providing cost savings at the point of sale. Your contractor can get these discounts through select distributors and pass them along to you. Be sure to ask your contractor to use a participating distributor and ask for discounts at checkout.
“We have lists of our distributors on our website,” Welch says.
dteenergy.com/instant-discounts
Compressed Air Efficiency
Compressed air is used in many manufacturing processes as well as in food service and other types of businesses. If your business uses compressed air, DTE’s Compressed Air Program can help you pinpoint leaks in your system that lead to costly energy waste. A technician will visit your business and use an ultrasonic leak detector to tag leaks. If you fix at least 50% of the leak volume within 60 days, you’ll get a rebate to cover the cost.
“They’ll find everywhere compressed air could possibly be leaking and driving up your energy costs,” Welch says. dteenergy.com/ffcompressedair
Steam Trap Efficiency
Steam traps are common in dry cleaners, breweries, food service and light industry. Failed steam traps can lead to significant energy waste, driving up costs.
DTE’s Steam Trap Program will send an energy advisor out to your business to perform a steam trap survey. Whether you opt to fix failed steam traps in house or use a contractor, you will receive rebates to cover the costs. Both programs work essentially the same way. dteenergy.com/ffsteamtrap
EnergySmarts for Michigan Business magazine
Stay current on all the ways to save energy and read about how other businesses have used DTE’s energy-saving programs to their advantage, with EnergySmarts for Michigan Business magazine. Make sure you never miss an issue by subscribing today. If you’d like to share your own energy-saving journey in an upcoming edition, reach out to your energy advisor. dteenergy.com/subscribebiz
Efficiency Strategies & Tips
DTE’s Efficiency Strategies & Tips webpage is your portal to learn easy ways to save energy at your business. It’s full of helpful resources, including a guide to savings by equipment category, such as lighting, HVAC/boilers, and electronics and automation. Boost your bottom line and increase your return on investment by browsing this page to ensure you’re purchasing equipment that qualifies for rebates and instant discounts. dteenergy.com/savenow
Business Energy Advisor
One of the features you’ll find on the Efficiency Strategies & Tips page is DTE’s online Business Energy Advisor. This feature allows you to search for energy efficiency tips by “business type” or “equipment type” and do a deep dive into how you can cut energy usage on your own or partner with DTE for consultations, rebates, instant discounts and more. dteenergy.com/savenow
CleanVision
All of DTE’s business-focused energy-saving programs are part of the energy company’s CleanVision, which is a commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Helping you trim energy usage helps DTE reach that goal. The programs not only help businesses save energy; they also contribute to Michigan’s clean energy future.
“Energy efficiency is good for everyone,” Welch says. “It helps businesses reduce their energy use and improve their operations, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and improves the comfort and atmosphere for customers and employees.”
CleanVision
“I hope [customers] see the benefit of [the meter relocation] once it’s all done — that it’s safer and easier for us to get in and do the work that we need to do.”
—SABRINA WILSON, DTE GAS OPERATIONS MANAGER
DTE’s Gas Renewal Program will cut greenhouse gas emissions by 500,000 metric tons of CO2-e every year
10 things to know about DTE’s Gas Renewal Program
Upgrades to pipelines and meter relocations will benefit customers and the environment.
DTE is in the middle of an ambitious Gas Renewal Program throughout Michigan, which includes replacing aging gas mains and moving meters outside. According to Sabrina Wilson, gas operations manager, the program aims to improve the ongoing safety, reliability and environmental sustainability of DTE’s natural gas infrastructure. Here are 10 things you need to know.
1. What is the Gas Renewal Program?
This is a 25-year plan to replace up to 190 miles of pipeline each year. The initiative started in 2011 to modernize Michigan’s natural gas delivery system via the installation of durable, corrosion-resistant polyethylene pipelines. DTE will spend $3.3 billion over the next 11 years to complete the project.
2. Why are these upgrades necessary?
The infrastructure DTE is upgrading includes cast-iron and steel pipes that have been in the ground for decades. According to Wilson, replacing them improves the safety and efficiency of the system. The new plastic pipes operate under higher pressure and are more effective in delivering natural gas to customers.
“It helps businesses by helping to ensure continued safe and reliable natural gas delivery,” Wilson says.
3. How will the program help the environment?
One of the primary goals is to reduce DTE’s environmental footprint. By replacing old pipelines, DTE expects to reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions by 500,000 metric tons of CO2-e, which is equivalent to the annual emissions from 100,000 cars.
As Wilson explains, the upgrades help prevent leaks of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing significantly to DTE’s CleanVision goal to have net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
4. What will happen to my gas meter?
As part of the upgrades, DTE is moving gas meters from inside homes and businesses to outside locations. In 2024 alone, more than 16,000 meters were moved outdoors. This relocation improves convenience and safety for both you and DTE.
INFRASTRUCTURE, continued on page 16
“Having these meters outside, we can do what we need to do as far as maintenance and checking them without having to go into the property,” Wilson says. Additionally, in case of an emergency, DTE can safely shut off the gas from outside.
5. What if I don’t want my meter moved? The Michigan Public Service Commission requires all meters to be outside.
Wilson emphasizes that while the process may seem inconvenient initially, it will free up customers from having to set up appointments for meter readings inside their property.
“I hope they see the benefit of it once it’s all done — that it’s safer and easier for us to get in and do the work that we need to do,” she says.
6. What can I expect during the upgrades? If project work is scheduled that could impact your property, here’s what you can expect:
• Notifications: Three to four weeks before work begins, you’ll receive a series of notices by mail, email or door hangers.
• Construction: Crews will install new gas lines and move indoor meters outside.
• Service interruptions: A brief service interruption (two to three hours) may occur during the meter relocation.
DTE is halfway through its 25-year Gas Renewal Program
After work performed during the winter, DTE makes temporary repairs to lawns and concrete and returns during warmer weather to complete permanent repairs by June 30.
• Completion: A technician will relight your appliances and ensure gas service is fully restored.
7. What will happen to my property after the upgrade work is done?
The DTE team members will leave your property how they found it.
“Everything that we disturb is taken care of,” Wilson says. “After we install our new lines and move the meter out, all repairs to the driveway, sidewalks and lawns are made.”
8. How do I know if my property is scheduled for upgrades?
DTE provides an interactive map where customers can check if their home or business is scheduled for upgrade work.
“We’re working in various areas in both southeastern and western Michigan, as well as in a few northern communities,” Wilson says.
9. How far along is the upgrade program?
In 2024, DTE reached the midpoint of the project, having replaced 2,000 of 4,000 miles of legacy gas pipelines. This milestone represents significant
progress in helping to ensure the long-term safety and reliability of the natural gas delivery system for Michigan customers.
10. Where can I find more information about this upgrade program?
You are encouraged to visit DTE’s website and use the interactive map, which is updated weekly. You can type your address into the search bar and see if work is slated for your property. The site also contains information about meter moves, property restoration and more.
“I would definitely suggest that [customers] go to the website to get as much information as they can,” Wilson says.
To find out if DTE is upgrading its natural gas system in your area, visit dteenergy.com/gas-map.
Save the Date
The Michigan Energy Efficiency Conference and Exhibit is back May 6.
Mark your calendars for May 6, when DTE and The Engineering Society of Detroit will host the 26th annual Michigan Energy Efficiency Conference and Exhibition at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi. Registration to attend or present at the conference is now open.
This premier event — the only one of its kind in Michigan — is designed to inform commercial and industrial businesses of all sizes about technology, products and services that can assist them in successful energy management. It’s also a prime opportunity to network; hundreds of people from a variety of industries attend the conference every year, and dozens of companies set up booths in the exhibition hall.
“Having an annual platform to learn, network, and share industry best practices and services is greatly needed in Michigan,” says DTE energy manager Travion Byrd, one of the event’s organizers. “We hope to expand and reach
more of our customers this year, making the conference a more interactive and engaging experience for attendees.”
This year’s all-day event will include the following:
• A luncheon and a concurrent keynote presentation. Last year, to commemorate the event’s quarter-century milestone, a panel of energy leaders discussed the past, present and future of the industry.
• A variety of educational 30-minute presentations. In 2024, presentation topics included navigating building controls with DTE’s Energy Efficiency Program for Business, funding lighting projects via nonprofit green bank Michigan Saves, and saving energy using proactive occupancy-based HVAC controls. Multiple session leaders also presented case studies of organizations that had taken control of their energy use and achieved substantial savings.
• Dozens of exhibitors offering energy-related products and services.
• Major awards recognizing energy efficiency initiatives.
To learn more about the conference or sign up as a presenter or attendee, visit esd.org
TOOLBOX
Something’s cooking
DTE partners with Gold Star Products to help customers save on energy-efficient food service equipment.
Since opening its doors in 1923, Gold Star Products has outfitted businesses in metro Detroit and beyond with all kinds of food service equipment.
The family-owned company supplies fryers, ovens, refrigerators and more to local restaurants, school districts, community centers and other large-scale operations.
To help its customers save money and energy, the company signed on a few years ago as a distributor in DTE’s Food Service Instant Discount Program. Natalie Judd, Gold Star’s purchasing
agent and Instant Discount coordinator, says partnering with DTE was a “good, common-sense measure” for the company and its customers.
“In the short term, DTE’s instant rebates directly offset new equipment costs; in the long term, the equipment often pays for itself in terms of energy [savings],” she says.
Since the DTE program started in 2018, more than 4,000 rebate claims have been submitted, resulting in payments exceeding $3 million total to electric and gas customers.
In addition, energy savings from the program have grown year over year. Jeremy Cappello, an energy efficiency program manager at DTE, estimates the total electric energy savings to be more than 10 million kilowatt-hours and the total gas savings to be more than 80,000 MCF. Together, that’s enough energy to power and heat a small town of around 1,000 to 5,000 homes for a year, depending on usage patterns.
The program connects business customers and contractors with participating distributors like Gold Star to save instantly on qualifying ENERGY STAR®–rated gas and electric food service appliances.
According to Cappello, the program was initiated with two primary objectives: first, to collaborate with distributors by providing training, marketing support and incentives aimed at increasing the
“The Food Service Instant Discount Program not only makes it easy for distributors like Gold Star to participate, but it also educates DTE customers on making more e cient choices when it comes to cooking equipment. It’s a true win-win.”
—JEREMY CAPPELLO, ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAM MANAGER AT DTE
sales volume of energy-efficient cooking equipment, and second, to help these distributors’ customers save energy and improve their overall energy efficiency.
“The Food Service Instant Discount Program not only makes it easy for distributors like Gold Star to participate, but it also educates DTE customers on making more efficient choices when it comes to cooking equipment,” he says. “It’s a true win-win.”
More than 20 participating food service distributors are located across DTE’s electric and gas territory.
“We partner with large national chains like Restaurant Depot as well as small businesses like Gold Star, which is one of our top 10 distributors,” Cappello says.
DTE food service customers’ journey to energy efficiency starts here
1. Visit a participating distributor: Find a list of participating distributors at dteenergy.com/discounts-foodservice.
2. Pick out your equipment: A participating distributor can help you choose the right qualifying equipment to fit your needs.
3. Purchase your equipment: Provide your installation address and DTE account information to verify program eligibility. Upon verification, the discount will be applied at the point of sale as a discount on your sales invoice.
He adds that the program is always looking to expand its network of distributors, which receive the following benefits:
• Potential sales volume increase of energyefficient cooking equipment.
• Training from DTE staff on energy-efficient equipment.
• Representation on DTE’s website (dteenergy.com/ discounts-foodservice).
• Additional sales spiffs or incentives for each eligible product sold.
• Promotional materials from DTE to boost product visibility and increase sales.
By joining, distributors can offer instant discounts to DTE electric, gas or combination customers on a wide range of food service equipment in various makes and models. Eligible products include refrigerators and freezers, dishwashers, ovens and broilers, fryers, griddles, steamers, evaporator units and ice machines. (To see a full list of eligible products, visit dteenergy.com/discountsfoodservice.)
Cappello says that discounts vary by the size and capacity of equipment. “The rebates can be anywhere from $400 to $3,000 or more,” he says.
Big food service operations are taking notice of the potential savings. In metro Detroit, six school districts invested in a significant commercial equipment upgrade through Gold Star using DTE’s Food Service Instant Discount Program. The large-scale energy efficiency upgrades were funded in part by the state’s recently bolstered universal lunch and breakfast programs.
Judd says that equipment such as rebate-eligible smart ovens and ventless appliance technologies have helped school districts stay on budget and optimize funding and also have helped to simplify operations and maintenance for staffstrapped schools.
“The more sophisticated ovens help mitigate labor shortages and high turnover without sacrificing performance,” says Judd about the appliances, into which a school’s menu can be uploaded, allowing workers to push a button and cook a selected dish perfectly.
As a DTE Food Service Instant Discount distributor, Judd says that the program is “great and so easy to use.”
“The savings, quality of equipment and long-term efficiency make it hard for [our customers] to say no,” she says.
Visit dteenergy.com/discountsfoodservice to learn more.
By Becky Kalajian
“I think whatever we can do to mitigate climate change is a good thing.”
—JANET WEBSTER JONES, OWNER OF SOURCE BOOKSELLERS
Source Booksellers owner Janet Webster Jones (left) and her daughter, Alyson Jones Turner, “make literary arts visible” at their store in Midtown Detroit.
Green read
Source Booksellers stays true to its roots while investing in a sustainable future with MIGreenPower.
Deep in the heart of Midtown Detroit is a bookstore unlike any other selling primarily nonfiction books about history, culture, well-being and the arts.
“We are a unique niche of nonfiction books that have been carefully curated,” says owner Janet Webster Jones about her store, Source Booksellers, which embodies the tagline “Making literary arts visible.”
Webster Jones says a combination of courage and opportunity sparked the idea of opening this kind of informational haven.
In the late 1980s, her experiences on an Egyptian study tour inspired her to teach a class on ancient African history. In that class, Webster Jones — a former educator who retired after 40 years from Detroit Public Schools — regularly brought in books about ancient African history to share what she learned. A student suggested she begin selling these books at a church Christmas bazaar, which led to several other opportunities, Webster Jones says.
DTE’s renewable energy portfolio will soon power ~1 million homes with clean energy
“I had opportunities to sell books to groups of people, and it just grew from there,” she says. “I did not set out to open a store.”
But she did. In 2002, she opened her first brick-and-mortar store in a shared space with three other women-owned, African American businesses on Cass Avenue.
Webster Jones says Source Booksellers’ atypical book selection is intentional. “We try to inform so people can have understanding, which hopefully leads to empathy, which will lead to action,” she says.
ENERGY JOURNEY, continued on page 22
Source Booksellers features a variety of non ction titles about history, culture, wellbeing and the arts.
Practicing what she preaches
And she walks the talk, regularly engaging with the community at the 1,200-square-foot store.
This past fall, for example, Source Booksellers managed books for the Great Lakes Bioneers Detroit Conference, as it has for the past 20 years or so.
Supporting organizations with innovative approaches to environmental and social challenges is part of the store’s identity as a community resource for topics like sustainability.
“I do know that every company, organization,
community, neighborhood, state, city and government has to be attentive to the issue of sustainability,” Webster Jones says. “What they pledge to do … that’s on them.”
When a DTE representative visited her this fall, the topic of sustainability came up during a discussion about DTE’s MIGreenPower program, which is open to all DTE electric customers who want to buy renewable energy for their home or business.
Webster Jones, whose bookstore has a section on ecology and sustainability and who engages in a variety of programming related to those topics, says climate change is a big concern of hers.
“I think everybody has to do something meaningful as soon as possible,” she says.
DTE’s wide-ranging plans to cut carbon emissions in half over the next 10 years include increased investment in solar parks, wind parks and other renewable energy resources. The overall aim is for netzero carbon emissions by 2050.
DTE recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its largest solar park, Sauk Solar, and has five additional solar parks under construction that are all funded through the MIGreenPower program. Together, all six parks will generate enough clean energy to power more than 220,000 homes. Combining those resources with DTE’s existing renewable energy portfolio, the company will be able to power approximately 1 million homes with clean energy.
Making a difference
Signing up for MIGreenPower allows customers like Webster Jones to buy renewable energy from these wind and solar parks for their home or business, either by selecting a percentage of their monthly electricity usage or by choosing a
“Our customers are asking for more clean energy, and we’re going to keep building new renewable energy projects to meet that demand.”
—SEAN GOUDA, DTE’S DIRECTOR OF RENEWABLE SOLUTIONS
fixed monthly dollar amount, which can be as low as $1 a month.
The program was designed for those who want to do good and clean up their electricity use without installing solar panels, says Sean Gouda, director of Renewable Solutions for DTE.
Since the program’s launch in 2017, nearly 2,000 small businesses have enrolled in MIGreenPower.
“It has exceeded expectations,” Gouda says. “Our customers are asking for more clean energy, and we’re going to keep building new renewable energy projects to meet that demand.”
Small-business customers can now enroll in MIGreenPower for just $1 a month with a simple sign-up — no equipment installation or maintenance required — and adjust or cancel their participation at any time. Email the team at migreenpower@dteenergy.com or visit dteenergy.com/migreenpower.
MIGreenPower is one of the largest voluntary renewable energy programs in the country, tripling the amount of renewables capacity across the state since its 2017 launch, says Gouda.
“MIGreenPower directly supports new renewable energy development, bringing cleaner energy to homes, schools and businesses throughout Michigan,” he says.
Webster Jones says that when she heard about the program, she quickly decided to sign up.
“I think whatever we can do to mitigate climate change is a good thing,” she says, “and DTE needs to be in line because it’s going to take every segment of our joint societies around the world to make a difference.”
Winter wisdom
Here’s everything you need to know about heating season.
As the seasons change, so does your need for natural gas. While DTE can’t prevent chilly temperatures, the energy company has you covered when it comes to managing energy consumption and costs e ectively throughout the winter months. As your business orders more rock salt, here’s what else DTE wants you to know about enduring the colder weather.
1.
What are some of the key factors that a ect business customers’ energy bills during the winter?
There are four main factors that impact bills during the winter months: energy usage, uctuations in temperature, changes in the workspace and the monthly billing cycle. The cost of heating your business’s space can account for up to half of your energy bill. Set your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and knock it down a few degrees during o -business hours to save on energy costs.
Drastic temperature dips cause your furnace to work overtime to keep your employees and customers cozy. Also, because many businesses hire additional seasonal employees around the holidays and there is less natural sunlight, workspaces experience a higher demand on lighting, heating and other equipment.
It’s also worth noting that billing cycles can run from 26 to
35 days, so you might see notable changes to your monthly energy bills no matter the season.
2. What can businesses do to heat their spaces e ectively and avoid wasting energy?
Some increased energy use during the winter is unavoidable, but businesses can take steps to help keep costs as low as possible. Well- tted shades and blinds may prove useful. Open them on windows that receive direct sunlight to help heat the space during the day and close them when the sun goes down for extra insulation.
Consider installing programmable thermostats that maintain a steady climate, especially during o -business hours and in areas with less daily tra c. Appropriately adjusting the temperature settings in your facility, even for just eight hours each day, could save your business up to 10% on heating bills. Set your thermostat back a few degrees after work hours when no one is using the space to save even more.
3.
In what ways can extreme winter weather a ect energy use and transmission?
There’s no controlling Mother Nature, and the winter months can bring frigid temperatures and powerful snow and ice storms. Extremely cold weather prompts heating systems to go into overdrive, use more energy and increase your energy bill.
scheduling a free energy assessment through the Small and Medium Business Program. Your business could qualify for a host of no-cost products that a skilled DTE energy advisor will install on the spot, including smart thermostats, advanced power strips and ENERGY STAR®–certi ed LED light bulbs. For more substantial improvements like furnace tune-ups, business customers may be eligible to apply for rebates ( ip to page 6 to learn more). Visit dteenergy.com/ smallbusiness for more information or to schedule a free energy assessment.
5.
How does DTE keep natural gas costs as low as possible for customers in the winter?
4. Does DTE have programs to help business customers be more energy e cient?
Businesses can start by
If you are a DTE gas customer, higher winter demand won’t make the cost of your natural gas rise. DTE buys a steady supply of natural gas, up to three years before you need it, and safely stores it underground in naturally occurring rock formations. When you need more of it as temperatures fall, DTE has ample supply, and because it was purchased well in advance of the higher demand, you’re protected from unexpected price spikes. Plus, there’s no markup. You pay what DTE pays — which just so happens to be among the lowest prices in Michigan.
TOOLBOX
Learn more about heating season at dteenergy.com/heatingseason.
A DTE energy advisor puts an insulation blanket on a water heater at a small business in Saline.
Surrounded by savings
Avoid wasted energy with water heater insulation blankets.
Insulation blankets may bring to mind those foil sheets that paramedics use to keep people warm in an emergency, but in the facilities management world, they serve a different, everyday purpose that DTE business customers should know about: saving energy.
A water heater insulation blanket wraps around a hot water tank to prevent heat from escaping through the walls, which in turn avoids wasted energy and extra stress on equipment. Because of these insulation blankets’ energysaving capabilities, DTE has recently added them to its list of products available for complimentary installation during the no-cost assessments available for combo and gas business customers. (Check out the Toolbox to learn more.)
Water heater insulation blankets can be made from a variety of materials, including fiberglass, foil and even denim. The blankets DTE uses from Simply Conserve are made from appliance-grade fiberglass and are rated at R-10. The R-value is a measure of insulation’s ability to resist heat flow; the higher the R-value, the better the thermal performance of the insulation.
A water heater that’s not properly insulated has to work harder to maintain a steady temperature because a significant amount of heat is lost through the tank
walls; this is especially true during the cold winter months when it is used more frequently. An insulation blanket traps that heat so your water heater doesn’t have to use as much energy to heat new water that enters the tank, avoiding wasted energy. In the long term, an insulation blanket can also help to prolong the life of your hot water heater.
DTE has recently added water heater insulation blankets to its list of products available for complimentary installation at eligible gas customers’ businesses.
Many newer water heaters are built with insulation already installed just below the surface. Not sure if your business’s water heater is already insulated? Here’s a trick DTE recommends: Place your hand on the surface of your water heater tank, and if it’s warm to the touch, it likely is not insulated and could benefit from a blanket. A complimentary energy assessment through DTE’s Small and Medium Business Program (available to eligible combo and gas customers) also can determine if your business’s hot water heater needs an insulation blanket. If it does, a skilled energy advisor will install one on tanks that hold up to 60 gallons of water, taking care to ensure that it doesn’t cover an electric panel, gas valve or pressure release. Installation is done on the spot and at no cost. This is just one more way DTE is helping business customers become more energy efficient.
To learn more about the Small and Medium Business Program or to schedule a complimentary assessment, visit dteenergy.com/smallbusiness.
Stay warm and save
Try these low-cost maintenance tips to conserve energy this season.
As temperatures drop this winter, you may find it challenging to keep your business’s energy use in check while maintaining warm, welcoming spaces for your customers and employees. After all, higher heating demands and shorter daylight hours can lead to more energy burned as business owners crank up the thermostat and flip on the lights.
But with a little maintenance, a few upgrades and some simple habit changes, you can save energy this winter while keeping your workplace comfortable for everyone. Here are some steps to try.
1.
Seal windows and doors. Drafty windows and doors can lead to signi cant heat loss, increasing demand on your heating system. A simple yet e ective solution is to apply weather stripping and caulk around these openings. These materials are inexpensive and readily available at any hardware store, and they can be installed easily to maintain a consistent atmosphere indoors.
2.
Inspect and tune up heating systems.
Regular maintenance of heating systems is essential. Routinely inspecting lters and cleaning or replacing them when they’re dirty will help keep a
system operating e ciently. Furthermore, a professional tune-up can identify potential issues before they become severe. Consider scheduling a biannual HVAC tune-up as a preventive measure to keep your system in optimal condition throughout the year and extend its lifespan.
3.
Upgrade to LED lighting. Transitioning from incandescent bulbs to energye cient LED lights can drastically reduce energy consumption. LEDs last longer and use less power, making them a smart investment for businesses of all sizes looking to save energy.
4. Use programmable thermostats. Programmable thermostats can schedule and adjust temperatures based on business hours, reducing system usage when not needed and saving energy while improving comfort.
5. Check insulation. Proper insulation is key to keeping the heat in and the cold out. Ensure that your attic and walls are well insulated to optimize e ciency and minimize heating demands during the winter months.
6.
Maintain refrigeration units. For businesses that rely on refrigeration, regular maintenance is vital. Clean the coils and check seals to
Other maintenance pointers
As you take care of your business space this winter, keep these tips in mind. DIY vs. professional help
ensure optimal operation. A well-maintained refrigeration unit uses less energy and reduces the risk of costly repairs.
7. Train employees.
Empower your sta to contribute to energy savings. Educate them on simple practices, like turning o unnecessary lights and equipment, keeping doors closed and using natural light whenever possible.
By implementing these low-cost maintenance strategies and taking advantage of available resources, you can promote energy conservation at your business this winter. A proactive approach will help keep workplaces e cient, safe and welcoming, even during the coldest months of the year.
Many maintenance tasks — such as sealing drafts and replacing light bulbs — can be handled by business owners themselves, but more complex tasks, like heating system tune-ups, may require professional assistance.
Rebates and resources
DTE offers many rebates to ease the financial burden of maintenance and upgrades. Potentially eligible services include, among other things, furnace, boiler, and water heater maintenance. Rebates are also available for eligible LED lighting and refrigeration upgrades. Applying for rebates is easy; simply fill out an application to submit basic information about your upgrades, and you will receive a rebate check in two to four weeks if you qualify.
If you need assistance, DTE’s Small and Medium Business Program team is happy to help. They can be reached at 855.748.2525 and DTE-small-business@franklinenergy. com, and more information is available at dteenergy.com/smallbusiness.
Links to learn more
For more details on DTE’s energy efficiency programs and available rebates, visit dteenergy.com/getstarted.
If you want to explore more energysaving tips and strategies, check out dteenergy.com/efficiencytips, where you’ll find resources tailored to business owners.
Simplify your energy costs with DTE’s BudgetWise Billing®
Enjoy peace of mind with streamlined, predictable monthly payments.
For small businesses, managing expenses effectively is crucial to maintaining a healthy bottom line. DTE’s BudgetWise Billing® program offers a practical solution to help you manage energy costs and avoid seasonal spikes that can disrupt your budget.
BudgetWise Billing® provides predictable monthly payments by leveling out energy costs throughout the year. This minimizes the financial fluctuations caused by Michigan’s unpredictable weather, allowing you to focus on growing your business rather than worrying about inconsistent energy bills.
Your monthly payment is calculated based on the average energy costs at your address over the past 12 months, ensuring your payments are customized to reflect your actual usage. If you’ve been at your location for less than a year, the billing history of the previous occupant is used. For the first three months, your payment will reflect this historical average, considering factors like weather variations and fluctuating energy rates.
To keep your budget on track, DTE conducts quarterly reviews of your payment amount against your actual energy usage. If your energy costs change by 5% or more, your monthly payment may be adjusted accordingly. After nine months, an additional review checks if your total payments align with your actual energy costs. If you’ve paid more than you used, the overpayment can be credited toward future bills or DTE can issue you a check.
At the end of the year, DTE performs a final review to settle any discrepancies between what you’ve paid and your actual energy usage. If you’ve overpaid, you can receive a credit on your next bill or request a check. Conversely, if your energy costs exceed your payments, you’ll be responsible for covering the difference.
Enrolling in BudgetWise Billing® is straightforward and free, and there are no restrictions on when you can sign up.
You also have the flexibility to opt out at any time, allowing you to adapt as your business needs change. To participate, you must have an active DTE service account in good standing with a balance of less than $12, and you must not be enrolled in other DTE payment plans. Additional eligibility requirements may apply.
DTE’s BudgetWise Billing® program is a valuable tool for small businesses, providing a way to manage energy costs predictably and effectively. With tailored monthly payments and regular reviews, you can focus on what matters most — growing your business — while enjoying the peace of mind that comes from stable energy expenses. Consider enrolling today and take control of your energy budgeting!
