DTE Reports Increase in Calls from Customers Who Want to Return to Utility Supply

DTE Gas said yesterday in a news release that it has been experiencing an increase in calls from natural gas customers, "who want to switch from their alternative gas suppliers back to DTE because of the utility's rates."

"Alternative gas suppliers' rates are not regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission. Utility companies, including DTE, are regulated and only charge customers what the company pays for natural gas. Unlike alternative suppliers, there is not a mark-up or profit margin earned on the gas DTE purchases," DTE said.

DTE's April Gas Cost Recovery factor, which reflects the cost of natural gas, is $0.456/ccf. Given the rise in gas prices this winter, DTE expects its Gas Cost Recovery factor to rise to approximately $0.540/ccf this coming fall.

"We make a conscious effort to control costs and hold rates stable while always keeping our customers' best interests in mind," said Dan Brudzynski, vice president, DTE Gas Sales & Supply.

DTE noted that since Gas Customer Choice (GCC) customers, "receive a DTE bill with the alternative gas supplier's name listed within it, they may not realize they've chosen another provider -- not DTE -- to supply their gas."

DTE also reminded customers that an account "lock-in" feature is available to prevent unwanted switching to a different supplier.

DTE also reminded customers that residential and small commercial customers who sign up with an alternative supplier have an unconditional 30-day cancellation right.