Duke Energy Foundation has contributed $562,500 to the Share the Light Fund in North Carolina, aiming to help residents manage higher energy bills following a period of below-normal temperatures. The recent cold weather has led to increased home energy use and, as a result, higher utility bills for many families.
The Share the Light Fund is designed to support local agencies that assist qualifying customers with utility bill payments and other essential needs. The latest investment from Duke Energy Foundation will be distributed through the Foundation for the Carolinas to community partners across North Carolina.
This new funding follows nearly $3.3 million in assistance provided by Duke Energy, its foundation, employees, and customers through the Share the Light Fund in 2025. Customers who need help paying their energy bills can find local agencies distributing assistance using Duke Energy’s Payment Assistance Finder tool. The company also encourages those who wish to contribute to set up recurring or one-time donations on its website; every dollar donated is matched by the Duke Energy Foundation up to $500,000.
Shelly Biby, chief advancement officer at Crisis Assistance Ministry in Charlotte, said: “Supporting families through winter starts with partnership, and Duke Energy’s Share the Light Fund empowers Crisis Assistance Ministry to reach households swiftly with the help they need.”
Brian Hahne, chief executive officer at Greensboro Urban Ministry in Greensboro, stated: “As colder weather persists, we’re grateful for our partners at Duke Energy Foundation that help us ensure all our neighbors have a warm place to lay their head – no matter the conditions.”
Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy North Carolina state president, commented: “The recent cold stretch may be challenging for customers already managing tight household budgets. Our focus is always on our communities, and this investment reflects our commitment to working alongside trusted local partners to help families manage costs.”
The Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually in philanthropic support for communities where its customers live and work. It is funded by shareholders of Duke Energy.
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), based in Charlotte, North Carolina, serves 8.6 million electric utility customers across six states and owns 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in five states. The company continues efforts toward an energy transition by investing in grid upgrades and cleaner generation sources such as natural gas, nuclear power, renewables, and energy storage.
More information about these programs can be found at duke-energy.com and through the Duke Energy News Center.
