Press Mention PV Magazine May 9, 2021
SACE Referenced
Duke Energy to halt electric shutoffs in extreme heat, hurricane conditions
In this mention
Duke Energy Florida has agreed to halt electric shutoffs during extreme heat (heat index 105°F or higher) and dangerous hurricanes or tropical storms following negotiations with Vote Solar, the CLEO Institute, and Southern Alliance for Clean Energy. The agreement also expands clean energy access for low-income customers through weatherization programs, demand-response incentives, and energy-saving tools. The agreement requires regulatory approval from the Florida Public Service Commission.
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Duke Energy to halt electric shutoffs in extreme heat, hurricane conditions
The agreement follows negotiations with Vote Solar, the CLEO Institute, and Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, as more than 20,000 Duke Energy Florida customers are reported to behind on their electric bills.
May 10, 2021 Tim Sylvia
Following negotiations with Vote Solar, the CLEO Institute, and Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, Duke Energy Florida has agreed to pursue a number of measures to assist vulnerable customers, many of whom are still suffering economically from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Among the measures, Duke agreed not to disconnect power due to nonpayment on days when the heat index is forecasted at 105 degrees or when a dangerous hurricane or tropical storm threatens. Unlike many other states, Florida currently has no protections for residents from power shut-offs during extreme temperature days, unless utilities voluntarily adopt them.
Due to Covid-19-related economic impacts, more than 20,000 customers in Duke Energy's service territory are behind on their electric bills. According to Vote Solar, targeting low-income customers who are in arrears will mobilize clean energy options to help the most vulnerable Floridians get back on their feet and keep future bills down.
Duke also agreed to expand access to clean energy technologies that help lower electric bills for low-income customers. This includes expanding its weatherization program for low-income residences, increasing incentives for low-income customers to take part in demand-response programs, and providing free energy-saving tools like LED bulbs and energy-saving power strips to low-income customers.
The agreement requires regulatory approval, and has been filed with the Florida Public Service Commission as part of Duke Energy's 2021 rate case.