Customers of Duke Energy are experiencing higher energy bills this winter, and the company is working to clarify the reasons behind these increases while offering solutions to help manage costs.
According to Duke Energy, the main factor contributing to higher bills is prolonged cold weather. The company stated that “extended periods of cold temperatures cause heating systems to run longer and more frequently to keep homes comfortable. That increased energy use – not a rate change – is the primary reason many customers are seeing higher bills this winter.” Although there was a small rate increase for both Duke Energy Carolinas and Duke Energy Progress, it only resulted in about a $4 increase for a typical customer using 1,000 kWh of electricity in the Carolinas, and less than a dollar for Progress customers using the same amount. The company emphasized that much higher usage was the main driver of increased bills.
Duke Energy noted that this past winter was among the most extreme in its service areas over the last decade, with frequent and long-lasting cold spells leading to greater heating demand. Additionally, snow and ice kept many families at home, which led to increased use of appliances such as cooking equipment and dishwashers.
The company addressed another common belief that nothing can be done to reduce bills during cold weather. Duke Energy said that “small actions and smart tools can help manage energy use and costs.” Suggested measures include setting thermostats lower, sealing air leaks, adjusting blinds based on time of day, running ceiling fans clockwise, and regularly changing air filters. The company also offers resources like Home Energy House Call (a free energy assessment), Flex Savings Option (which encourages shifting usage to off-peak hours), and smart thermostat programs with bill credits.
For those struggling with payments, Duke Energy pointed out several flexible options: “Budget Billing for more predictable monthly payments year-round,” due date extensions for short-term relief, Pick Your Due Date programs aligned with pay schedules, and installment plans for spreading past-due balances over time.
Financial assistance remains available through various programs. In 2025 alone, more than $95 million supported nearly 110,800 North Carolina households via initiatives such as Share the Light Fund and federal funds from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The company recently participated in LIHEAP Action Day by meeting with congressional offices about continued funding support. Customers can find local organizations offering bill help through their Payment Assistance Finder or by calling 211.
Duke Energy also advised customers to compare their current bill not just month-to-month but against the same month from previous years: “When looking at your energy bill, it helps to compare the same month from one year to the next.”
In summary, while colder weather has driven up energy usage—and thus bills—customers have access to multiple tools ranging from efficiency tips and payment flexibility to financial aid resources. More information is available at duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings.
Duke Energy serves millions of electric and natural gas customers across several states including North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee. The company continues investing in grid upgrades and cleaner generation sources as part of its ongoing energy transition efforts.
