DTE Energy (NYSE: DTE), a Detroit-based utility, reported fourth-quarter operating earnings of $1.65 per share on February 17, 2026, surpassing the analyst consensus of $1.52. Revenue reached $4.43 billion, exceeding expectations of $3.39 billion. Following the announcement, shares rose approximately 2.8%, indicating a shift of investor focus from tech stocks to essential utilities amid economic volatility.
The company secured a landmark agreement to power the Stargate OpenAI data center in Saline Township, Michigan, requiring 1.4 gigawatts of power—equivalent to a nuclear reactor output. This contract is projected to increase DTE’s total electric load by 25%. Additionally, DTE announced a $36.5 billion capital investment plan through 2030 to support infrastructure upgrades, alongside guidance for 2026 operating earnings per share projected between $7.59 to $7.73, reflecting a 6% to 8% growth rate.
However, DTE faces regulatory challenges, including a motion from Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel to revisit the approval of Stargate contracts. Moreover, the company was recently fined $100 million due to environmental violations at its Zug Island facility. Despite these hurdles, DTE aims to navigate the energy transition and capitalize on the demands of AI technology.
