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DTE Energy Invests in 1.5 GW of Michigan-made Battery Energy Storage Systems for Eight Projects

LCG, May 28, 2026--DTE Energy yesterday announced a $1.6 billion investment to develop Michigan-made battery energy storage systems across Michigan through partnering with LG Energy Solution Vertech, the U.S. energy storage division of LG Energy Solution.

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Microsoft and Avangrid Sign PPA for Bluebird Solar Project in Washington State

LCG, May 27, 2026--Avangrid, Inc., a member of the Iberdrola Group, today announced the signing of a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Microsoft for the 140 MWdc (100 MWac) Bluebird Solar project in Klickitat County, Washington. Bluebird is located near four other energy projects owned and operated by Avangrid in Klickitat County and represents another $300 million investment in the community. The Bluebird Solar project is expected to achieve commercial operation in 2028.

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Industry News

Western Resources Units Ask for Rate Increases

LCG, Nov. 28, 2000--Kansas Power & Light Co. and Kansas Gas & Electric Co., the electric utility units of Western Resources Inc., yesterday asked the Kansas Corporation Commission for permission to increase rates to cover rising operating and maintenance expenditures and investment in new plant and equipment.

KP&L's typical residential customers would see an increase of about $9.25 on their monthly bills. The company said it would be the first rate hike in 17 years. The average KG&E residential electric customer would see an increase of approximately $6.50 per month to their bills.

David C. Wittig, chief executive of Western Resources, said "We are always sensitive to the rates our customers pay. We strive to balance their desire for the lowest possible prices and our commitment to provide safe, reliable electric service." But he noted that the electric companies have had to invest in new power plants to keep up with growth.

The major components of the rate filings include, in the order presented by Western Resources, new generation and depreciation, retiree medical benefits, tax and interest adjustments, operations and maintenance and numerous other items and fuel costs.

Fuel costs seem to be the big thing. Wittig said "Our efforts enabled us to stave off rate increase requests as long as we have, but these measures aren't enough to offset more than a 100 percent rise in natural gas fuel prices that has occurred this year and general inflationary costs the companies have incurred since their last rate review."

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