Final answer:
DTE Electric's generation capability is dependent on the availability of energy sources and their efficient conversion to electricity, with challenges like intermittency of renewables influencing the stability and cost of supply.
Step-by-step explanation:
DTE Electric's generating capability is heavily dependent upon the availability of reliable fuel sources and the efficiency of their conversion into electricity, often via heat engines and/or generators. The availability of energy sources is crucial because the most convenient and cost-effective sources are used first, while less convenient forms are less likely to be exploited. Moreover, the efficiency of electricity generation from these sources is significant, as conventional power plants often convert energy at only 30-40% efficiency. Another essential factor is the intermittency of renewable sources such as solar power, which does not match the constant demand for electricity, especially at night or when solar input fades. Thus, technologies like heat pumps are developed to compensate for energy losses in the conversion process, and solutions like battery storage are considered to counteract the intermittency, despite the additional costs and maintenance.