Duke Energy Urges North Carolina Customers to Manage Heat-Driven Costs

Air-conditioning demand across the state tracked 43% above normal by early July, driven by consecutive rounds of extreme heat. To offset the resulting financial pressure, Duke Energy president Kendal Bowman advises customers to leverage digital resources like Bill Insights, which tracks how weather patterns influence monthly costs. These tools, alongside proactive Usage Alerts, provide homeowners with visibility into their consumption before billing cycles close.

Beyond digital monitoring, the company suggests practical efficiency measures such as adjusting thermostats, closing window treatments during peak sun hours, and limiting the use of heat-emitting appliances in the afternoon. For those struggling with rising expenses, the utility offers payment arrangements and access to the Share the Light Fund for qualifying individuals. Long-term efforts to stabilize rates include a $2.3 billion projected savings initiative through 2040 and the application of $96 million in federal infrastructure grants.