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Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) today sent a letter to DTE Electric requesting an update on the status of the ongoing demolition of the Trenton Channel Power Plant. 
 
“On August 15, I held a Downriver environmental town hall meeting with representatives from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, and Wayne County, MI. At that meeting, a number of residents raised questions regarding DTE’s Trenton Channel. Three of the central issues were: the next phase of demolition and its completion, the potential environmental impact of the demolition, and the future of the site,” Dingell writes. “As you know, after the demolition began with the implosion of the plant’s tower and smokestacks, some in the community raised concerns over the contamination of the surrounding air, water, and soil. At the town hall meeting, EGLE and county officials detailed their efforts to ensure the community’s protection. EGLE reiterated that each phase of demolition undergoes thorough testing before proceeding. However, questions remained, particularly regarding the remaining structures of the plant and the clarity of plans for the rest of the site.”

Dingell requested answers to the following questions: 

1. There is concern that this demolition could remain incomplete and left as an abandoned structure as other significant properties nearby had been for decades. Can DTE outline its plans to complete the remaining demolition work? What steps are being taken to ensure the demolition is thorough and timely?
2. The community is worried about potential pollutants, including coal ash and PFAS, escaping from the site. Could DTE clarify what measures are in place to prevent contamination and address concerns about these substances? What are the plans for capping coal ash, and will the quarry be retained?
3. Each time a structure is taken down, the community raises concerns about asbestos and other debris emanating from the site. Can DTE provide details on how asbestos is being handled during demolition? What other steps are being taken to ensure overall air quality?
4. DTE has plans for a large-scale battery storage facility. Could DTE elaborate on this plan for the long-term development of this site? Can DTE also provide a timeline for this project, and how it fits into the overall site plan?
5. Is there a way that DTE might consider regular updates to the community? What would be the most appropriate forum for sharing these updates? If challenges or issues arise, how might the community be informed?
6. How will DTE work with local and county governments once the cleanup is completed?

View the full letter here.