Learn more about natural gas choice and how to find out if you’re using an alternative gas supplier
This summer, you may meet alternative gas suppliers as they go door-to-door in Detroit or call you over the phone. This is because you have the right to choose who supplies your natural gas. Here are the facts about natural gas choice so you can make the decision that’s right for your household.
What’s the difference between using DTE or an alternative gas supplier?
You can select the natural gas supplier of your choice, or you can take no action and continue to get your natural gas supplied by DTE under regulated rates. Regulated rates are those that the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) must review and approve on behalf of customers. The rates of alternative gas suppliers are not regulated – they get to choose what they charge, with no MPSC review or approval.
Even if you use an alternative gas supplier, you will still pay for your natural gas service on your DTE bill.
Alternative gas suppliers sometimes offer promotional rates when you start service; but remember, promotional rates typically don’t last. For instance, you may be offered discounted natural gas for a few weeks or months – perhaps during the summer when you may not use much natural gas anyway – and the normal, unregulated rate could climb as temperatures drop and you begin using more gas to stay warm.
DTE will not contact you to offer special deals on rates – like lower rates for a limited time – by phone or at your door. If you receive a letter, email or phone call offering a discount, please know that this is not DTE and may be an alternative gas supplier pitching an unregulated rate.
Considering an alternative gas supplier?
If you wish to use an alternative gas supplier, you should shop around just as you would for any product. Check the MPSC’s comparison site at Michigan.gov/compareMIgas, which compares unregulated rates with DTE’s regulated rate. If an alternative supplier calls you, be sure to get their prices and contract terms. Read all information provided by the supplier before signing the contract.
Do not give your DTE account number to an alternative gas supplier until you are sure you want to sign up with this supplier. You could become a victim of “slamming” — which is when a supplier uses your account number to switch your service without your consent.
How do I figure out if I’m already using an alternative gas supplier?
Take a look at your DTE bill. If you are served by an alternative gas supplier, you will see their name listed in the “Summary of Charges” section, along with the rate you are paying compared to DTE’s rate.
If you use an alternative gas supplier, you should regularly review your bill and gas choice rate. Alternative gas supplier rates are unregulated, so they are subject to change.
Learn more about natural gas choice at dteenergy.com/gaschoice.
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