This blog was written by Amelia Shenstone, former Regional Advocacy Director with the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy.

Guest Blog | September 12, 2017 | Energy Efficiency, Utilities

Duke Energy Progress, which provides power to over a million households and 200,000 businesses in North Carolina, is proposing a major rate hike. If Duke gets its way, the rate hike will:

• Raise residential rates 16.7% – that’s $17.80 per month for a typical household.
• Nearly double the fixed monthly charge, reducing your ability to control bills by using energy more efficiently or installing rooftop solar.
• Pay over $400 million to expand natural gas burning power plants.

But before Duke Energy can proceed, the North Carolina Utilities Commission must approve these changes, and that’s where you come in. The Commission is holding public hearings where you have an opportunity to make your comment in person.

Mark your calendar for one of these 7pm hearings:

September 12 in Rockingham
September 25 in Raleigh
September 27 in Asheville
October 11 in Snow Hill
October 12 in Wilmington

You may also comment at the formal evidentiary hearing, where Duke Energy and expert witnesses will present testimony, which begins at 1pm November 20 in Raleigh.

Rate hikes can be adjusted based on input from customers, advocates, and other stakeholders. For background info and what to expect at the hearings, click here. For questions, email SACE’s Campaigns Director Amelia Shenstone at [email protected].

Engage in the democratic process with Duke Energy by attending a hearing this month!