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State approves permits for energy turbines near Detroit

DEARBORN, Mich. — Michigan officials have approved an energy company’s request to build two natural-gas-fired turbines outside Detroit.

The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality approved a permit last week for DTE Energy Co. to construct the turbines in Dearborn, The Detroit News reported . The approval came despite opposition from activists and residents calling to delay the process and conduct health studies.

“It’s a real disappointment for communities that are overburdened by environmental contamination,” said Michelle Martinez, the statewide coordinator of the Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition. “Michigan is in the midst of a rush to natural gas. And environmental justice communities are the loser in the equation.”

Critics argue Dearborn already sees pollution from other plants. The project could expose more toxic emissions to residents, they said.

The turbines are expected to produce carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide, which have been tied to health problems including asthma, cardiovascular disease and prenatal development issues, according to research by the Community Action to Promote Healthy Environments partnership.

DEQ officials said they reviewed public comments and that the energy company’s request met all the permit requirements.

The turbines will be part of DTE’s new infrastructure in a facility that will power Ford Motor Co.’s Research and Engineering Center.

The energy company plans to begin construction soon, said Catherine Asselin, a permit engineer with the DEQ.

“We did make some changes based on community members concerns,” Asselin said. “And (we) plan on addressing more concerns about the area and health at a town hall event.”

One change includes requiring DTE to tests for particulates, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides four times within a year-long period following the initial start of the operation.

DTE officials said the project will benefit residents because less efficient technology will be replaced by newer, cleaner infrastructure and will actually improve air quality, enhance energy reliability and reduce air emissions.

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