CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – Duke Energy Carolinas bills could rise by nearly $10 a month in 2027.
A spokesperson told WBTV on Tuesday, July 14, that after “extensive negotiation,” the company reached a partial settlement with the North Carolina Public Staff that it said would reduce projected costs compared with Duke Energy’s initial request earlier this year.
If approved by regulators, monthly electric bills for typical Duke Energy Carolinas residential customers using 1,000 kWh would increase by $9.39 — from $156.81 to $166.20 — starting Jan. 1, 2027, followed by a $5.52 increase on Jan. 1, 2028.
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That’s less than Duke Energy’s earlier proposal, which would have meant a roughly $17 monthly increase in 2027 for a typical customer, followed by an additional $6.34 a month starting in 2028.
“We believe this is a meaningful compromise – one that will keep customer rates low while still allowing us to make the needed investments to serve North Carolina’s growing economy,” the spokesperson said.
Looking at percentages
If approved by state regulators, residential rates would increase 7.5% in 2027 and 4.1% in 2028 — a total increase of 11.6%.
In early April, the utility asked for increases totaling up to 18% over two years.
Customers said they’re not in favor of the rate hike. For months, viewers have reached out to WBTV complaining about spikes in their utility bills — and many say they’re frustrated that Duke Energy is seeking even higher rates.
“Families are struggling left and right – inflation, everything else going up,” said Tim Wilcox of Lincolnton.
Why are energy bills rising?
Duke Energy said it has added 150,000 customers over the past two years.
A spokesperson told WBTV in April that the company is building 10 new substations to meet growing energy needs, adding advanced generation and completing thousands of grid improvements across counties statewide to deliver reliable service.
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