Detroit Thermal is the operator of the Detroit steam distribution system that has been warming Detroit for more than 100 years. We provide steam for heat, hot water and cooling services in over 140 buildings in the densely populated central business district of Detroit, Michigan. Our customers use district energy as an alternative to operating their own steam boilers, electric chillers or other energy systems.
Detroit Renewable Energy LLC (DRE) was formed by Greenwich, Connecticut-based Atlas Holdings LLC with participation by Youngstown, Ohio-based Thermal Ventures II, LP. DRE is a new Detroit-based holding company for several companies that operate as independent subsidiaries of DRE. More information about Detroit Renewable Energy is available online at www.detroitrenewable.com.
Detroit Renewable Power (DRP) safely converts solid municipal waste into a clean, renewable supply of electricity and steam energy. The electricity is sold to Detroit Edison and the steam is distributed to Detroit Thermal to heat and cool more than 140 buildings in downtown and midtown Detroit. More information about Detroit Renewable Power is available online at www.detroitrenewablepower.com.
The Detroit steam distribution system, one of the oldest and largest in North America, got its start as the Central Heating Company in 1903 and served only 12 customers. As the city grew, so did the steam system. The primary boiler facility, known as the Beacon Street Plant, commissioned in 1926, is a National Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark.
In 2003, Thermal Ventures II, LP (TVII) from Youngstown, Ohio bought the Detroit steam system from DTE Energy. Since 2003, $35 million has been invested to improve infrastructure, modernize facilities, and add new boilers and more.
Detroit Thermal has a long history of dependability. Our facilities include multiple boilers and steam generators that offer flexibility and redundancy. Moreover, we have licensed operators on duty and on site 24/7/365 to respond to any problems or concerns.
Steam produced for Detroit Thermal at Detroit Renewable Power’s waste to energy facility is classified as a renewable energy source, allowing customers to significantly reduce or eliminate their building’s carbon footprint by switching to district energy.
Also, by using Detroit Thermal’s service, customers are able to reduce or eliminate the need for on site heating and cooling equipment, which translates to lower energy consumption and materials costs. Lower energy and material costs translates to a reduced environmental impact.
Yes. According to the Energy Recovery Council, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies the energy produced at Detroit Renewable Power’s EFW facility as renewable because solid waste — the fuel used to produce it — is sustainable and non-depletable. To learn more about energy-from-waste as a renewable energy source, visit the FAQs on the Energy Recovery Council's web site.
Customers who use Detroit Thermal's heating and cooling services find that they do not have to purchase boilers, chillers and other equipment, and that capital expenses can be reduced or eliminated, redirecting those funds into their core business. Customers may also reduce or eliminate maintenance expenses such as emergency construction or repair and installation costs associated with an internal heating/cooling system.
Additional benefits include ongoing operational savings – customers can reduce or eliminate boiler operators and maintenance staff, insurance costs, chemicals and natural gas expenses, electricity, annual maintenance and inspections, and other regulatory costs.
For a free, no-obligation economic analysis of using Detroit Thermal in your planned or existing facility, please contact Scott Barr, Director of Business Development, at 313-963-3684 or email sbarr@detroitthermal.com.
