David B. Harwood

DTE Energy
Director – Renewable Energy

Education

DTE Energy
Director – Renewable Energy
University of Michigan, BSE Chemical Engineering, 1983
Baker College, MBA, 2001

Career Summary

I have been with DTE Energy since 1982. Prior to Renewable Energy, I held lead positions in Fossil Generation Mergers & Acquisitions, Generation Optimization, Strategy & Planning, Nuclear Development, and Major Enterprise Projects. Within these roles I was responsible for Integrated Resource Planning, Merchant Power Operations, Generation and Environmental Strategy, Wholesale Power Supply and Reliability Planning, development of a Combined License for a new nuclear power plant, and oversight of DTE’s Project Management Organization. I spent my early career in power plant engineering and operations.

I am currently responsible for Renewable Energy strategy, project development, vendor agreements, regulatory compliance, purchase power contracts and renewable energy operations. Current operating portfolio includes seven utility scale wind parks and 31 large solar arrays in Michigan, with over $1B of new projects currently under construction

What excites you about your career?

Throughout my career, I have been able to change roles many times and in fairly significant ways. The ability to learn and the challenge of change excites me. I have been an engineer and manager in a production environment, led corporate strategy and M&A teams, created new organizations for commercial optimization of power generation portfolios and licensing of nuclear power plants, and led a project management organization responsible for a $2B/year project portfolio. Currently I am leading a great team of professionals that are passionate about our purpose to create a clean energy future for Michigan.

Time spent at U-M

Likes
Athletic events, intermural sports, concerts, fraternity life, Angelo’s for breakfast.

Dislikes
ChE230!

Favorite Student Orgs
Four-year member of the Michigan Marching Band, as well as Hockey and Basketball Pep Bands. Also a member of the Theta Delta Chi Fraternity.

Advice to Students
Work hard and don’t get discouraged – never give up. Take full advantage of all Ann Arbor and UofM has to offer. Attend sporting events, concerts, whatever interests you. Achieve a balance of study and other interests that keeps you engaged.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I am a French Horn player in the International Symphony Orchestra as well as a member of a Brass Quintet. I play golf whenever possible. I remain an avid Michigan Fan and have been a football season ticket holder since 1983, missing only five home games in 35 years.