Here’s a weekly behind-the-scenes glimpse at some of the stories we’re following. Have a reading recommendation? Let us know at nina@planetdetroit.org. 

No credit: Power outages, which affected about 300,000 DTE customers, are expected to cost the utility over $50 million to repair. (Freep) DTE Energy and Consumers Energy restored power to most customers affected by recent severe thunderstorms within two days, likely avoiding the need to issue $38 credits, despite criticism that such compensation is insufficient for customer’ losses. (Freep) 

Highway hazards: The Michigan Department of Transportation will ease restrictions on transporting certain hazardous materials, such as fuels and battery components, across the Ambassador Bridge starting October 29. These materials will be transported during off-peak hours with vehicle escorts, according to MDOT. (WDET)

Warm, wet winters: Research from the University of Michigan indicates that Great Lakes winters are trending warmer and wetter. This shift may lead to increased lake effect snow in the north, more rain in the south, and greater temperature variability. (Michigan Public) 

Dirty deals: A report by Michigan State University and FLOW warns that Michigan industries are avoiding pollution cleanups by using “institutional controls” that allow them to put a protective barrier around pollution without removing it, passing on the financial and health risks to future generations. The report recommends legislative changes to enforce stricter cleanup requirements. (Bridge Michigan)

Falling back: Michigan is forecasted to have warmer-than-normal temperatures in early fall, with average precipitation levels, while winter is expected to bring normal temperatures but higher-than-average precipitation. (Bridge Michigan)

Waste deep: Environmental advocates are urging EGLE to deny a new permit for the Fremont Regional Digester, a facility that processes organic waste into biogas for fuel and a byproduct known as digestate, which is used as fertilizer. They argue that the draft permit fails to protect natural resources and call for a public hearing to discuss necessary safety measures. (Michigan Advance)

Palisades petition: A petition with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission seeks to block the reopening of the Palisades nuclear plant in Covert Township, citing safety concerns and alleged misrepresentations by Holtec, the plant’s owner. The plant’s restart has significant support from local and national leaders, with backing from the U.S. Department of Energy and the state of Michigan. (Michigan Public) 

A dead end: Green burials, which avoid toxic chemicals and non-biodegradable materials, are gaining popularity as environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional funerals, with several certified cemeteries in Michigan offering these services. (Detroit News)

Sludge grudge: For decades, Michigan farmers have used sewage sludge as fertilizer, but it has been found to contain toxic “forever chemicals” like PFAS. Now, Michigan has taken action by shutting down one farm with high levels of PFAS, leading to lawsuits and fears about health risks for farmers and consumers. (New York Times)

Harris on PFAS: Public health advocates are hopeful that a Kamala Harris administration would expand regulations on PFAS chemicals, building on progress made by the Biden administration. This optimism is supported by her running mate Tim Walz’s history of enacting one of the strongest PFAS bans in Minnesota, despite opposition from major corporations like 3M. (The Guardian)