As winter energy bills rise, Duke Energy is addressing concerns from customers about the causes and offering solutions to manage costs. The company says that extended periods of cold weather are primarily responsible for higher bills, rather than significant increases in rates.
According to Duke Energy, heating systems run longer and more often during prolonged cold spells, leading to increased energy usage. While there was a minor rate increase this season—about $4 for a typical Duke Energy Carolinas customer using 1,000 kWh and less than $1 for a similar Duke Energy Progress customer—the main factor behind higher bills is greater consumption.
This winter was one of the most severe in the past decade across Duke Energy’s service areas. More frequent and lasting cold snaps led to colder overnight temperatures and increased demand for heating. Additionally, snow and ice kept many people at home, which further raised energy use through activities like cooking and washing dishes.
To help customers manage their energy use and control costs, Duke Energy suggests actions such as setting thermostats to the lowest comfortable temperature, sealing air leaks, adjusting blinds based on time of day, running ceiling fans clockwise to distribute warm air downward, and changing air filters regularly.
The company also offers several tools:
– Home Energy House Call provides an energy assessment at no cost along with expert recommendations.
– Flex Savings Option allows customers to save by shifting some energy use to off-peak hours.
– Smart thermostat programs offer bill credits for qualifying devices.
For those struggling with payments or needing flexibility, options include Budget Billing for consistent monthly payments, due date extensions, Pick Your Due Date plans that align billing with pay schedules, and installment plans for spreading out past-due balances.
Financial assistance remains available as well. In 2025, over $95 million in aid helped nearly 110,800 North Carolina households through initiatives like the Share the Light Fund and federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Duke Energy has advocated for continued federal funding by participating in LIHEAP Action Day meetings with congressional offices. Customers can connect with local organizations using the Payment Assistance Finder or by calling 211.
Duke Energy advises comparing bills year-over-year instead of month-to-month because seasonal changes can cause fluctuations between consecutive months. This approach provides a clearer picture of changes in usage and cost over time.
“Cold weather can drive higher energy use, which leads to higher bills for the energy used. Customers have options from managing energy use and payment plans to financial assistance. Duke Energy is here to help customers stay informed, supported and connected to resources.”
Duke Energy serves millions of electric utility customers across six states and operates significant natural gas utilities as well. The company continues investing in grid upgrades and cleaner generation sources while focusing on reliability during its transition toward a smarter energy future.
More information about savings tips is available at duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings.
