Detroit, 12 September 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As temperatures in the southeastern United States rose above 90 degrees, Michigan in June, Eva Thompson stood in disbelief as she watched her new, free central air conditioning (AC) system being installed in her home in DetroitThe foster mother of three children was one of nearly 1,000 income-eligible clients who received DTE Energy Efficiency Support Program (EEA).

“I thought the email I received was too good to be true until I called DTE, who verified my information and set up an appointment for someone to come to my house a few days later,” Thompson said. “The process was so quick – my air conditioner was installed about two weeks later and I also got a new refrigerator. I am eternally grateful.”

DTE’s EEA AC installation initiative is part of an ongoing effort to assist low-income customers and vulnerable populations, especially during the hot summer months when the need for cooling can be both a health necessity and a financial burden. As part of the initiative, customers can also receive additional assistance, including weatherproofing, appliances and insulation to ensure their homes meet health and safety standards.

“An essential part of our EEA program is the application of the holistic approach to providing energy efficient products and services to our customers,” said Carmen WelchDirector of Energy Efficiency, DTE Energy“By creating a pipeline to implement these measures in customers’ homes, the program meets the essential energy needs of our customers who need it most.”

DTE’s EEA program invests more than 50 million US dollars annually to help customers improve their home comfort through energy efficient upgrades. EEA has served more than 50,000 customers since its inception and works with more than 32 community-based nonprofits and charities to identify the customers who need the most help.

“Since I became chair of the House Energy CommitteeI have worked with DTE on programs that support our vulnerable populations,” said Helen ScottMichigan State Representative. “This initiative is an example of some of the benefits offered by DTE’s Energy Efficiency Assistance Program, which provides air conditioning and other health and safety improvements to low-income customers. I look forward to continuing to work with DTE to expand this important initiative and other programs that help our most economically disadvantaged communities.”

In addition to the new central air conditioning unit, climate cage and refrigerator, Thompson has been enrolled in the EEA’s Health and Safety Initiative, where she may be eligible for other home improvements such as roof repairs and insulation.

“You work hard for years to get the bare necessities and it never seems to be enough. I am very grateful to DTE for their help and for making this process as smooth as possible,” Thompson said.

DTE has been ranked as one of the top five energy utilities by the American Counsel for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) for its leadership on energy equity and the development of energy efficiency programs to support underserved communities.

This EEA initiative has reached capacity for this season, but there are still opportunities for customers to receive assistance. For more information about the EEA program and customer eligibility, visit dteenergy.com/eeassistance. For more information about DTE’s energy savings programs, visit dteenergy.com/saveenergy.

To DTE Energy

DTE Energy (NYSE:DTE) is a Detroit-based diversified energy company engaged in the development and management of energy-related businesses and services across the country. Its operating units include an electricity company serving 2.3 million customers in Southeast Michigan and a natural gas company that serves 1.3 million customers in Michigan. The DTE portfolio also includes energy companies focused on customized energy solutions, renewable energy generation, and energy marketing and trading. DTE has continued to accelerate its carbon reduction goals to achieve ambitious targets and is committed to using its energy to serve through volunteerism, education and employment initiatives, philanthropy, emissions reduction, and economic advancement. Information about DTE can be found at dteenergy.com, empoweringmichigan.com, x.com/dte_energy, and facebook.com/dteenergy.

For further information, media representatives please contact: Dominique Hicks, DTE Energy313.235.5555

Dominique Hicks
DTE Energy
313-235-5555

Source: DTE Energy

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