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Duke Energy offers tips to save energy and money as temperatures rise in the CarolinasJune 6, 2026 7:05 PM
PR Newswire (US) What's happening: Temperatures are forecast to reach the 90s, pushing cooling systems to run longer and use more energy to maintain indoor temperaturesWhy it matters: Acting now with a few simple steps can help reduce energy use during the heat waveCHARLOTTE, N.C., June 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- High temperatures are forecast across the Carolinas this weekend and next week, and Duke Energy has tips to help you take control of your energy use while keeping you and your family cool. Tips to save energy and money Set your thermostat to the highest comfortable setting. Even a couple of degrees can help save energy and money. Keep in mind: Your system will run longer – using more energy – the hotter it is outside even if your thermostat setting never changes.  Use cooler water for washing clothes. Switching your temperature setting from hot to warm can cut a laundry load's energy use in half. Run heat-producing appliances during cooler morning hours for additional savings.Close curtains and blinds on the sunny side of your home to help prevent the sun from heating your home.  Operate ceiling fans in a counterclockwise direction in the summer, which pushes cooler air back down into the room. Savings programs and incentives? Get a free home energy assessment. Customers receive a free energy efficiency kit, customized usage report, low-cost tips and expert recommendations to help them see energy savings by signing up for our free Home Energy House Call. Get paid for shifting energy use. Customers can receive a credit on their bill for automatically shifting their energy use to times when demand for energy is lower. Enroll your smart thermostat in our Power Manager® (Duke Energy Carolinas customers)/ EnergyWise® Home (Duke Energy Progress customers) program.? Find more ways to get ready for the heatDuke Energy is here to help customers manage energy use during the summer heat with programs, solutions and practical tips.Explore tools, programs and practical solutions at: duke-energy.com/SummerSolutionsDuke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.24-Hour: 800.559.3853 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-offers-tips-to-save-energy-and-money-as-temperatures-rise-in-the-carolinas-302793331.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy Original: Duke Energy offers tips to save energy and money as temperatures rise in the Carolinas

Duke Energy supports South Carolina first responders with $500,000 in grants for emergency preparednessJune 5, 2026 9:13 AM
PR Newswire (US) Funding goes to 34 nonprofits and government agencies across the Palmetto StateSince 2022, Duke Energy's HERO Grant Program has funded 133 grants with $2.5 million, delivering critical support to nonprofits and local agenciesGREENVILLE, S.C., June 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As emergency managers, first responders and community leaders are preparing their communities for the 2026 hurricane season, the Duke Energy Foundation is awarding $500,000 through the 2026 Helping Emergency Response Organizations (HERO) Grant Program to help South Carolina communities be prepared for the impacts from severe weather. By the numbers: More than 30 organizations are receiving grants of up to $20,000 each. The grants will fund training, life-saving equipment and innovative technology identified as needs following severe weather events – all aimed to aid in weather-related disaster planning and recovery efforts. A complete list of recipients can be found here.Our view: "Duke Energy is proud to work alongside first responders when severe weather hits, and a critical part of emergency response is preparation," said Tim Pearson, Duke Energy's South Carolina president. "We strive to help fill the gaps in emergency preparedness our communities have, and hope that these grants can help emergency managers, first responders and community leaders better prepare to protect and help our communities."Proven success:In the fifth year of the program, past grant recipients were able to help fill the gaps in emergency preparedness for their communities. Read more about the impact.In Dorchester County, HERO funding supported the launch of a Cut & Toss Team to clear debris and restore emergency access during severe weather. When Winter Storm Fern brought down limbs across key routes, the team rapidly cleared priority roadways – reducing delays and easing pressure on fire, rescue and public works crews.In Anderson County, Hurricane Helene in 2024 created dozens of hazardous road closures at once, quickly stretching emergency resources. Using a $15,000 HERO grant, the county purchased a fully stocked traffic-control trailer with cones, barriers and portable speed bumps. The centralized trailer allows crews to quickly mobilize and secure multiple sites at the same time. The investment proved valuable during Winter Storm Fern in 2026, when crews quickly blocked unsafe routes and warned motorists as conditions worsened.In Oconee County, HERO funding supported the addition of a second shelter trailer, allowing officials to operate two warming shelters simultaneously – including one equipped for residents with special medical needs.Positive response:Dr. Mandy Gattis, Grants and Special Projects Director, South Carolina EMS Association: "We are thankful to the Duke Energy Foundation for their commitment to strengthening emergency preparedness across South Carolina. This grant will ensure that EMS agencies, hospitals, and emergency management teams have the reliable communication tools they need to coordinate and respond effectively during disasters."Katherine Jones, York County Parks Director: "York County is committed to safety and this grant from Duke Energy will allow us to upgrade our weather-related safety measures in and around our parks, which will impact over 300,000 visitors annually at seven different locations. With these tools in place, we'll be able to monitor severe weather more closely and respond more quickly helping keep visitors informed and safe."Robbie Swofford, Emergency Management Coordinator, Spartanburg County: "Our Duke Energy Foundation HERO grant award will provide Spartanburg County Emergency Management the opportunity to partner with fire departments across the county to conduct Weather Radio and Fire Alarm Blitzes in their communities. Thanks to this funding, we will be able to fully address the unmet needs of nine fire departments and partially address the unmet needs of two additional departments. These blitzes will help place critical preparedness and life-safety resources directly into the hands of residents who need them most."Rob Lybrand, Director, Sumter County Emergency Management: "Sumter County is honored to be among this year's grant recipients. Duke Energy Foundation funding will enhance roadway safety and accessibility during winter weather events by supporting roadway clearing and salt-spreading operations, improving travel conditions and strengthening the county's emergency response capabilities."Duke Energy Foundation
Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.Duke Energy 
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Media Contact: Catherine Ramirez
24-Hour: 800.559.3853 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-supports-south-carolina-first-responders-with-500-000-in-grants-for-emergency-preparedness-302792693.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy Original: Duke Energy supports South Carolina first responders with $500,000 in grants for emergency preparedness

The DOE announces grants for Duke Energy projects, bringing total funding to nearly $96 millionJune 5, 2026 8:00 AM
PR Newswire (US) New DOE funding would be applied to critical upgrades at Duke Energy plants in Kentucky and North CarolinaLatest funding would bring total federal support to nearly $96 million while helping keep costs down for customersThis news builds on recent Duke Energy announcements delivering billions in customer savingsCHARLOTTE, N.C., June 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy was selected by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for new grant funding totaling up to $61.8 million to support reliability and refurbishment projects at coal-fired power plants in Kentucky and North Carolina. This news builds on a previously announced $34 million grant for Belews Creek Steam Station in North Carolina, bringing total DOE funding for Duke Energy projects at these sites to nearly $96 million. Duke Energy will now enter negotiations to finalize funding amounts. The new funding includes: Up to $33.4 million for East Bend Station in KentuckyUp to $28.4 million for Roxboro Station units 2 and 3 in North CarolinaWhat this means: Duke Energy filed applications requesting grant funding late last year, as these plants were identified for needed refurbishment of critical components to maintain operational reliability. As energy demand continues to grow across Duke Energy's service areas, maintaining and enhancing existing power plants remains one of the most efficient ways to deliver dependable service. DOE funding helps to offset the cost of these projects and reduce the amount that would otherwise be borne by customers.Our view:"We take every opportunity at Duke Energy Kentucky to reduce costs for our customers while continuing to deliver the reliable energy they depend on, and we appreciate the partnership of the Trump administration and DOE in this regard," said Amy Spiller, president of Duke Energy's utility operations in Ohio and Kentucky. "These investments at East Bend will strengthen reliability for the communities and businesses we serve while helping lower the cost of necessary upgrades over time.""This funding supports previously planned critical upgrades that help ensure we can continue delivering reliable power to our North Carolina customers while keeping costs as low as possible," said Kendal Bowman, president of Duke Energy's utility operations in North Carolina. "As our state continues to grow, investments like these help us meet increasing demand, support local communities and maintain the dependable service our customers expect."Bigger picture: Duke Energy is focused on strengthening the reliability of its generation fleet while identifying opportunities to reduce costs for customers. This announcement comes on the heels of other recent Duke Energy actions designed to reduce long-term customer costs while supporting reliability and growth:Recently, Duke Energy announced more than $5 billion in customer savings, including: approximately $2.3 billion in net customer savings from 2027 to 2040 through the planned combination of the company's two electric utilities in the Carolinas up to $3.1 billion in net tax credit value through a multi-year agreement covering nuclear and solar production tax credits and solar and battery investment tax credits expected to be generated between 2025 and 2028 in Florida and the Carolinas – savings that will be used to reduce customer billsThe company announced in May that it submitted an application for loans from the U.S. Department of Energy that represent potentially billions of dollars in additional customer savings as the company strengthens the electric grid, adds capacity and reliably serves some of the fastest-growing states in the country. Duke Energy Florida is implementing its third rate reduction of 2026 from June through September, lowering residential customer bills by a total of approximately $50 when compared to January, or 25%, for every 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy used.Duke EnergyDuke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Riley Cook
24-Hour: 800.559.3853  View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-doe-announces-grants-for-duke-energy-projects-bringing-total-funding-to-nearly-96-million-302792637.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy Original: The DOE announces grants for Duke Energy projects, bringing total funding to nearly $96 million

Duke Energy offers $500,000 to support small businesses across North CarolinaJune 4, 2026 10:48 AM
PR Newswire (US) Eligible nonprofit organizations can apply for grants of up to $25,000 by June 30Nonprofit organizations will use the funds to provide awards of up to $5,000 to individual small businessesCHARLOTTE, N.C., June 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Duke Energy Foundation today announced $500,000 in grants to support nonprofit-led programs that help small businesses start, grow and thrive across North Carolina. Zoom in: Nonprofit organizations can apply for $25,000 grants, which will then fund microgrants of up to $5,000 to individual small businesses. Funding can be used by local businesses like restaurants and retail stores to complete renovations, buy equipment or technology, purchase inventory or meet other business needs.Flashback: Twenty North Carolina organizations were awarded funding for small business support in 2025, including Beaufort Business Association and Moore County Economic Development Partnership. Since 2020, Duke Energy Foundation has committed more than $2.9 million to support small businesses across North Carolina.Why it matters: "Small businesses are the backbone of the economy, especially in North Carolina where they employ nearly half of the state's workforce," said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy's North Carolina president. "Through strategic grantmaking, the Foundation helps to stimulate local economies, create jobs and foster economic growth in the communities where Duke Energy operates."How to apply: Eligible nonprofits can find additional program details and apply via the Duke Energy Foundation's website. Applications are open now through June 30, 2026.Duke Energy Foundation
Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.  Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Madison McDonald
24-Hour: 800.559.3853  View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-offers-500-000-to-support-small-businesses-across-north-carolina-302791733.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy Original: Duke Energy offers $500,000 to support small businesses across North Carolina

Duke Energy site readiness efforts help land $1.2 billion advanced manufacturing project in Cherokee CountyJune 3, 2026 8:15 AM
PR Newswire (US) Advance work at the Bailey site prepared the property for a significant industrial investment by USA Rare Earth
Collaboration underscores the power of ready-to-go sites; adds to the $3.5 billion of capital investments and more than 5,200 new jobs the Site Readiness Program has helped bring to South CarolinaGREENVILLE, S.C., June 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- USA Rare Earth's announcement this week of a major investment and new jobs in Cherokee County highlights the impact of Duke Energy's Site Readiness Program, which helped prepare the Bailey Industrial Site for major economic development. Through upfront due diligence, infrastructure planning and site marketing, the program made Bailey more competitive for companies looking to move quickly on a new project. Since 2005, the program has helped attract significant investment across South Carolina, and Bailey is the latest example. After completing the site-readiness process, the Cherokee County property was better positioned to compete for transformative projects – culminating in USA Rare Earth's announcement that it will build a facility there, bringing a $1.2 billion investment and 490 new jobs in one of the county's biggest economic wins.Our view: "Duke Energy is proud to help bring this transformative project to Cherokee County and strengthen America's domestic rare earth supply chain," said Tim Pearson, Duke Energy South Carolina president. "The Bailey site is a strong example of how our Site Readiness Program helps communities compete for game-changing projects. By working with state and local partners to prepare the site in advance – from diligence and coordination to energy planning – we helped make this property more appealing for a company ready to invest, create jobs and move quickly. As we continue to prioritize reliable power at the lowest possible cost for our customers, we stand ready to use this program and every tool in our toolbox to help South Carolina win more opportunities like this."Zoom out: The Duke Energy Site Readiness Program includes detailed site assessments by partners in site selection and engineering to identify opportunities, address challenges and improve a property's competitiveness before a prospect is on the table. That proactive work can help communities shorten timelines, reduce uncertainty and better position sites like Bailey for major industrial announcements.Under the program, Duke Energy works with local economic development organizations on the overall strategy to improve and add to South Carolina's site inventory.Large-scale economic development projects play a key role in keeping costs as low as possible by helping pay for fixed infrastructure costs that benefit all customers through capacity expansion and improvements to reliability.By the numbers: For 22 consecutive years, Duke Energy's economic development efforts have been recognized by Site Selection magazine in the publication's annual list of "Top Utilities in Economic Development."Since 2005, projects that have located on Site Readiness Program sites have announced $3.5 billion of capital investments and more than 5,200 new jobs for South Carolina.Duke Energy has evaluated 102 sites in South Carolina, and 26 companies have selected sites that have gone through the program.Examples of successful program sites include EA Sween in Greenwood County, Thermo King in Greenville County, Fancy Pokket in Lancaster County, Cyclic Materials in Chesterfield County and most recently USA Rare Earth in Cherokee County.The Site Readiness Program is a key example of how Duke Energy helps create jobs and bring more value to South Carolina. In fact, in 2025, Duke Energy helped recruit $3.4 billion in capital investment and 2,000 new jobs throughout the state.More sites set for success: In addition to the Cherokee County site, two other prime locations for development recently went through the Site Readiness Program:The Anderson Area Airport Industrial Park is a 226-acre property adjacent to the airport. Owned by Anderson County, it contains 175 buildable acres and is well positioned from both a utility and accessibility standpoint. The Carolina's Centre Industrial Park in Chesterfield County is a 296-acre site with frontage along Highway 9 between the towns of Chesterfield and Cheraw. The property contains a 52,000 square foot spec building, water and heavy electrical infrastructure.What they're sayingKen Moon, Cherokee County Development Board executive director: "Duke Energy's Site Readiness Program was instrumental in USA Rare Earth's decision to choose the Bailey site for a major expansion and new facility in South Carolina. The program's preparation helped make the site competitive and ready to meet the company's needs, creating a major economic win for Cherokee County. Duke Energy continues to be a strong partner in helping position our community for growth."Tommy Dunn, Anderson County Council chairman: "Duke Energy remains an essential partner in advancing economic development in Anderson County, and the Site Readiness Program is a powerful example of that collaboration. By proactively identifying and preparing sites past, present and future, the Site Readiness Program investment has enhanced our competitiveness and strengthened our ability to attract transformative projects."Libby Lear, Chesterfield County Economic Development director: "I cannot emphasize enough the importance of site readiness and how significantly it impacts community growth. Duke Energy's Site Readiness Program is instrumental in attracting businesses, creating jobs, and fostering economic development in Chesterfield County. By preparing sites for potential investment, we are not only enhancing the appeal of our area but also paving the way for sustainable growth and prosperity."Duke Energy 
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Media Contact: Ryan Mosier
24-Hour: 800.559.3853 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-site-readiness-efforts-help-land-1-2-billion-advanced-manufacturing-project-in-cherokee-county-302790078.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy Original: Duke Energy site readiness efforts help land $1.2 billion advanced manufacturing project in Cherokee County

Duke Energy Florida implements third rate reduction to lower residential customer bills by approximately 25% in 2026May 29, 2026 10:14 AM
PR Newswire (US) ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., May 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy Florida will implement its third rate reduction of 2026 from June through September, lowering residential customer bills by approximately $50, or 25%, for every 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy used when compared to January. The breakdown:Below is an outline of how these rate reductions have and will continue to appear on the bills of Duke Energy Florida's typical residential customers using 1,000 kWh per month:February 2026: An approximately $33 decrease from the early removal of the storm cost recovery charge associated with the company's response to hurricanes Debby, Helene and MiltonMarch 2026: An approximately $11 decrease instituted by the company every March through November to help customers save money during times when energy use is typically higherJune 2026: An approximately $6 decrease reflecting the difference between the storm cost recovery amount collected and the actual amount incurred by the company (effective through September 2026)Total: An approximately $50 decreaseOur view:"We know it feels like every bill is higher right now – from housing to groceries to power – and that can put a strain on families. We also understand that our customers depend on us to provide safe, reliable energy, day in and day out, at the lowest possible price," said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. "This is the third rate reduction for our customers this year, supporting our commitment to delivering positive outcomes that have a real, tangible impact on their wallets and in their lives."True up explained: Duke Energy Florida customers – like all investor-owned utility customers – only pay for the actual costs associated with the company's storm response. The Florida Public Service Commission (FPSC) recently approved a filing to true up the difference between the storm cost recovery charge amount collected (approximately $1 billion) and the actual amount incurred by the company (approximately $915 million) following the 2024 hurricane season. This true up will flow back to customers as a decrease in fuel rates from June through September 2026.For 1,000-kWh residential customers, the true up – combined with FPSC-approved recovery costs associated with the company's newest solar energy site – will result in an approximately $6 net decrease on bills when compared to March through May 2026.Commercial and industrial customers can also expect bill decreases ranging from 3.3% to 7.4% when compared to March through May 2026, though the specific impact will vary depending on several factors.More savings:Duke Energy Florida continues to identify new and creative ways to create additional savings for customers, including:Making efficiency improvements at many of its natural gas plants, saving customers $340 million in fuel costs.This translates to $10 savings on customers' monthly bills.Completing four new solar energy sites – in Madison, Hernando and Sumter counties – saving customers another $1 billion from displaced fuel costs.Passing on $65 million in Inflation Reduction Act tax credits to customers, which will only increase as more solar energy sites come online.This saves residential customers at least $2.50 per 1,000 kWh.Help is available:While Duke Energy Florida is focused on keeping its own costs in check, the company is committed to connecting customers with practical ways to save energy and manage their bills, including flexible payment plans. For more information, please visit duke-energy.com/HereToHelp.   Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,500 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Aly Raschid
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
X: @DE_AlyRaschid View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-florida-implements-third-rate-reduction-to-lower-residential-customer-bills-by-approximately-25-in-2026-302785766.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy Original: Duke Energy Florida implements third rate reduction to lower residential customer bills by approximately 25% in 2026

Ahead of hurricane season, Duke Energy Foundation awards $500,000 to strengthen storm preparedness across North CarolinaMay 28, 2026 10:41 AM
PR Newswire (US) Since 2016, the Duke Energy Foundation has given more than $8.9 million to support emergency preparedness and storm response in North CarolinaCHARLOTTE, N.C., May 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- With the 2026 hurricane season beginning June 1, the Duke Energy Foundation is awarding $500,000 in grants to 20 nonprofit and local government partners across North Carolina to strengthen emergency preparedness, improve coordination during severe weather and support faster, safer recovery for communities statewide. Our viewKendal Bowman, Duke Energy's North Carolina president: "Preparation saves lives and shortens recovery. By investing in trusted local partners across North Carolina, we're helping communities strengthen emergency readiness before storms hit and ensuring responders have the tools they need when every minute counts."Positive responseAllison Taylor, regional executive, American Red Cross North Carolina Region: "The American Red Cross is grateful to Duke Energy for investing in the readiness of our region. Their support helps families and communities better prepare for storms and other disasters across the Carolinas."Lacy Pate, director of Disaster Recovery and Grant Assistance, NCACC Member Services Foundation: "We're grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for its investment in the 100 Counties Prepared program. Because disaster recovery begins and ends at the local level, this support strengthens the readiness of county leaders – equipping them with the tools, relationships and knowledge to improve coordination, build resilience and respond when it matters most. With stronger local capacity, counties will be better positioned to act quickly, coordinate effectively and support their communities through every phase of storm response and recovery."Chief Andy Lipscomb, Davie Rescue Squad: "We are incredibly grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for their generous $25,000 investment in Davie County's storm preparedness and rapid response capabilities. These funds will directly support the Davie Rescue Swiftwater Team by enhancing equipment and operational readiness for severe weather and flooding events. Partnerships like this strengthen our ability to protect lives, respond quickly during emergencies and better serve the citizens of Davie County when they need us most." High-impact investments: Funding will be used to:American Red Cross: Support disaster preparedness, response and recovery programs across North Carolina, including volunteer training, emergency sheltering, supplies and community educationBurke County: Repair a rescue boat and purchase a drone to improve water-based response, wildfire monitoring and overall emergency response capabilitiesCaswell County: Build and equip a mobile shelter support unit with essential supplies and equipment to improve shelter readiness and operations during emergenciesCity of Winston-Salem: Build a mobile shelter support unit with a trailer and supplies to enable faster deployment and operation of emergency shelters during storms and power outagesCleveland County: Install a new outdoor warning siren in an unserved area and relocate an existing siren to improve emergency alerts and public safety during severe weatherCraven County Emergency Services: Purchase a drone to support search and rescue operations and conduct rapid damage assessments following stormsDavie Rescue Squad: Purchase upgraded swift water rescue equipment and protective gear, along with supporting advanced training for respondersEastern Band of Cherokee Indians: Deliver a multiday, contractor-led training program to strengthen incident planning, coordination and response capabilities among regional emergency responders during stormFriends and Neighbors of Swannanoa: Develop and pilot a scalable Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) starter kit, including training materials, equipment and instructor development, while launching and equipping a new CERT team in SwannanoaHenderson-Vance Emergency Operations: Purchase chainsaws and PPE for debris removal, expand shelter supplies and provide disaster preparedness kits and training to residentsHoke County: Replace outdated interoperable radios to ensure reliable emergency communications during storms and power outagesHuntsville Volunteer Fire Department: Purchase a UTV and fire rescue skid unit to improve access and response capabilities for wildland fires and remote rescuesInformation Technology Disaster Resource Center: Install permanent communications infrastructure at priority resiliency hubs, expand connectivity for vulnerable populations and document a scalable model for disaster-prone communitiesJohnston County Emergency Services: Purchase and distribute 250 storm preparedness kits with essential supplies to help vulnerable residents better prepare for severe weather and power outagesLawsonville Volunteer Fire Department: Purchase a fully equipped traffic control trailer to quickly secure hazardous areas, manage roadway safety and respond more efficiently during storm-related emergenciesMcDowell County: Equip emergency response vehicles with wildfire suppression tools, protective gear and specialty equipment to improve wildfire mitigation, response and community resilienceMoore County: Create a mobile disaster shelter support trailer stocked with supplies to expand shelter capacity and improve deployment during emergenciesNorth Carolina Association of County Commissioners Member Services Foundation: Expand a statewide storm preparedness initiative by supporting regional trainings, developing planning materials, and providing hands-on technical assistance to county leaders.Orange County: Install additional flood monitoring sensors to improve real-time data collection and early warning alerts in high-risk flood areasWilmington Area Rebuilding Ministry: Complete targeted home repairs that address storm-related structural risks for low-income homeowners, improving safety and reducing future damage and emergency incidentsDuke Energy Foundation
Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.  Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Madison McDonald24-Hour: 800.559.3853  View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ahead-of-hurricane-season-duke-energy-foundation-awards-500-000-to-strengthen-storm-preparedness-across-north-carolina-302784627.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy Original: Ahead of hurricane season, Duke Energy Foundation awards $500,000 to strengthen storm preparedness across North Carolina

New Duke Energy program helps South Carolina nonresidential customers lower costs while supporting a growing gridMay 27, 2026 12:08 PM
PR Newswire (US) PowerShare Storage offers bill credits to customers who enroll a qualifying energy storage systemProgram builds on solutions to help ensure long-term grid reliability and resilienceGREENVILLE, S.C., May 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Public Service Commission of South Carolina has approved the launch of a new nonresidential demand response program that leverages customer storage assets as flexible grid resources while delivering direct value to participating customers. By enrolling a qualifying energy storage system, customers can earn bill credits while helping support a more reliable grid during periods of high demand as the Carolinas continue to grow. Why it matters: An energy storage system functions like a backup power source, capturing energy when it's available, and delivering it when customers need it most. Storage-based demand response programs enhance this benefit by helping customers reduce costs while supporting grid reliability during times of peak demand. PowerShare® Storage expands Duke Energy's existing battery flexibility solutions beyond residential customers to include commercial, industrial, government and other nonresidential participants.The big picture: Customer-sited storage – whether in homes or businesses – plays an increasingly important role in keeping the electric grid reliable, stable and cost-effective. By storing energy when surplus resources are available and releasing it when demand is highest, these systems help accommodate more renewable generation while supporting customers during periods of peak use, such as winter mornings or summer evenings.Today, nearly 500,000 customers in the Carolinas participate in Duke Energy demand response programs, helping reduce system costs and strengthen reliability across the electric grid. This broad participation helps keep rates lower for all customers – not just those enrolled. Through the PowerShare Storage program, nonresidential customers now have additional opportunities to manage energy costs while contributing to overall grid reliability.By the numbers: The program offers customers up to three types of incentives that reward participation and support a reliable electric grid.First, customers can receive a one-time connectivity credit of $120 per kilowatt when their system meets program connection requirements. Customers whose battery storage systems are charged using renewable energy may also qualify for an additional $30 credit per kilowatt.Customers also earn a monthly capacity credit of $3.50 per enrolled kilowatt, minus a factor for system losses that is independently verified.In addition, customers earn an energy curtailment credit of $0.10 per kilowatt hour for energy used during curtailment events each billing cycle.Combined, these incentives provide customers with predictable returns in exchange for making stored energy available when the grid needs it most.By enrolling in the program, customers allow Duke Energy to temporarily discharge their systems between 30 and 36 times per year, with each event lasting no more than four hours. Customers maintain flexibility through the program, with the ability to opt out of up to four events per year – including two during winter months – while remaining eligible for bill credits. Duke Energy will begin to operate PowerShare Storage in South Carolina in August 2026 – nonresidential customers who would like to learn more about the program should contact their utility account representative or email PowerShareStorage@duke-energy.com.What they're saying:Tim Pearson, South Carolina president for Duke Energy: "It's a priority for us to save every dollar we can for our customers, who are essential partners in our work to modernize and maximize the grid and keep it operating reliably for everyone. PowerShare Storage is one of the ways we are innovating for customers today while at the same time preparing for the grid of tomorrow. This kind of program is, I believe, the kind of innovation the South Carolina Energy Security Act of 2025 calls for, and I am pleased that we have more options to provide for customers thanks to it."Duke Energy Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Catherine Ramirez
24-Hour: 800.559.3853 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-duke-energy-program-helps-south-carolina-nonresidential-customers-lower-costs-while-supporting-a-growing-grid-302783363.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy Original: New Duke Energy program helps South Carolina nonresidential customers lower costs while supporting a growing grid

Ahead of hurricane season, Duke Energy Foundation awards $130,000 to 10 organizations advancing storm preparedness and community resiliencyMay 26, 2026 1:34 PM
PR Newswire (US) ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., May 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- With the 2026 hurricane season starting on June 1, the Duke Energy Foundation is awarding $130,000 to 10 organizations that are preparing communities across Florida for storms, while also strengthening their resiliency and capacity for safe, coordinated recovery. High-impact investments:American Red Cross ($25,000)City of Davenport ($5,000)Frostproof Chamber Foundation ($5,000)Gulfport Senior Center Foundation ($30,000)Hernando County Board of County Commissioners ($10,000)Lake County Board of County Commissioners ($5,000)Orange County Office of Emergency Management ($20,000)Seminole County Board of County Commissioners ($10,000)Taylor County Emergency Management ($5,000)Wakulla County Sheriff's Office ($15,000)For descriptions of how each grant will be used and the specific counties impacted, as well as quotes from each organization's leadership, please click here. Our view:Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president: "Since 2021, the Duke Energy Foundation has granted $3.9 million to nonprofit partners supporting storm readiness and response throughout the Sunshine State. Through this funding, we are equipping boots-on-the-ground first responders with the resources they need to help our communities act quickly when facing an emergency and recover as fast as possible when it's over. And we know this work – especially when paired with our ongoing grid hardening efforts that help reduce power outages and speed up restoration – has and will continue to improve outcomes for our customers when it matters most."Positive response:Lauraleigh A. Avery, Orange County Office of Emergency Management division chief: "The strong partnership between Orange County Emergency Management and Duke Energy ensures residents remain informed, connected, and safe before and during disasters. By providing reliable access to charging resources, we help safeguard critical life-safety communications when power outages occur."
 Dustin Bleiweiss, City of Davenport parks and recreation superintendent: "The city of Davenport's collaboration with Duke Energy represents more than a partnership – it reflects our shared commitment to safeguarding our community. By working together, we are empowering residents with the knowledge, resources and resilience needed to face hurricane season with confidence."
 Andria Herr, Seminole County Board of County Commissioners chairman: "Protecting our most vulnerable residents is one of our highest priorities, and partnerships like this with the Duke Energy Foundation help make that possible. Together, we are strengthening Seminole County's ability to care for residents with special medical needs when they need it most."
 Jennifer N. Nagy, Wakulla County Sheriff's Office director: "Our partnership with Duke Energy represents more than just funding – it reflects a shared commitment to building a safer, more resilient community. Through their continued support and grant initiatives, we've been able to expand public outreach, strengthen training programs, and enhance our ability to serve residents before, during and after emergencies. This collaboration allows us to turn planning into action and ensures that our community is better equipped to face evolving challenges."
 Julie Starr, Gulfport Senior Center Foundation grants coordinator: "Partnering with Duke Energy directly strengthens community resilience in Pinellas County by equipping vulnerable seniors with the tools, education and coordinated support needed to withstand extreme weather events. Together, we will ensure older adults facing financial hardship are safer, better prepared and less dependent on emergency response systems during times of crisis."
 Erin Thomas, Hernando County emergency management director: "Hernando County Emergency Management is deeply grateful for its partnership with Duke Energy. Through this collaboration, we have been able to significantly enhance our HERricane Summer Camp – expanding beyond introducing participants to the public safety field to also providing advanced training opportunities for returning campers. By welcoming returning participants as mentors, we are able to further grow the program while fostering leadership development and empowering the next generation."Duke Energy Foundation 
The Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,500 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. Duke Energy 
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Aly Raschid
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
X: @DE_AlyRaschid View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ahead-of-hurricane-season-duke-energy-foundation-awards-130-000-to-10-organizations-advancing-storm-preparedness-and-community-resiliency-302782154.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy Original: Ahead of hurricane season, Duke Energy Foundation awards $130,000 to 10 organizations advancing storm preparedness and community resiliency

Duke Energy Foundation honors South Carolina veterans this Memorial Day with $30,000 in grants for workforce developmentMay 20, 2026 11:51 AM
PR Newswire (US) Funding celebrates America250 by supporting organizations that provide job readiness programs to those who served and their familiesGREENVILLE, S.C., May 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As communities honor the sacrifices of U.S. service members and their families this Memorial Day, the Duke Energy Foundation is awarding $30,000 to South Carolina nonprofit organizations who focus on the needs of veterans through the second round of funding as part of its America250 initiative. Where the money goes: The grants – part of a total investment of more than $550,000 in the Palmetto State – have been awarded to Upstate Warrior Solution and Hidden Wounds, and will help expand workforce development programs for veterans across eight counties.Why it matters: "As we prepare to celebrate our nation's 250th anniversary, I can't help but think of our nation's veterans who made this celebration possible. It's important for us to invest in those who served and their families by getting them the training and skills they need to succeed after their military service," said Tim Pearson, Duke Energy South Carolina president. "By partnering with these organizations, we can help directly support veterans in communities across our state."High Impact Investments:Hidden Wounds received $15,000 from the Duke Energy Foundation to execute Operation Hidden Wounds Employment (OHWE) a comprehensive support system for job readiness and employment of veterans, which includes leveraging partnerships for training opportunities, assessment and skills testing for veterans and building a network of veteran-friendly employers in Sumter, Lee, Clarendon and Kershaw counties.With $15,000 from the Duke Energy Foundation, Upstate Warrior Solution will expand workforce development services for justice-involved veterans reentering their communities in Greenville, Spartanburg, Oconee and Anderson counties. The funding will strengthen employment services within the Veteran Outreach program and support career services and staff time dedicated to career counseling, resume development, employer outreach, and job placement for veterans with criminal records.Positive response: Theresa Thompson, Chief Operating Officer, Upstate Warrior Solution:
"We are honored to be selected by the Duke Energy Foundation as part of this important America250 initiative. As our nation prepares to commemorate 250 years of history, this support allows us to create meaningful opportunities for veterans, first responders, and our community to reflect on the service, sacrifice, and shared values that continue to shape our country. We are grateful for Duke Energy Foundation's investment in preserving stories, fostering connection, and celebrating the spirit of America in the Upstate."Dr. Lance Newman, Executive Director, Hidden Wounds:
"Hidden Wounds is beyond excited and incredibly grateful to receive this grant opportunity from Duke Energy that will help veterans gain meaningful and sustainable employment throughout our service area. This support will create life-changing opportunities for those who have served our country by helping them build stability, purpose, and long-term success. Together, we are continuing our mission to ensure veterans and their families have the resources and support they deserve."Where the money goes: These grants build on Duke Energy Foundation's more than $1 million investment through its America250 initiative. The initiative focuses on community-driven projects throughout the company's six state service territories to recognize America's 250th anniversary. Earlier this spring, the Foundation announced grants supporting projects that revitalize local parks, green spaces and shared community spaces. In South Carolina, $275,000 went to organizations as part of a total investment of more than $550,000 in the Palmetto State. The third and final round of grant recipients supports initiatives that expand access to history and civics education and will be announced in June.Duke Energy Foundation The Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.Duke Energy Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Media Contact: Catherine Ramirez
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Duke Energy invests in North Carolina veterans' career pathways through America250 grantsMay 20, 2026 10:28 AM
PR Newswire (US) CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As communities prepare to honor Memorial Day, the Duke Energy Foundation is investing $45,800 in three organizations helping North Carolina veterans build careers after military service. Through its America250 initiative, the funding supports programs focused on connecting veterans to training, credentials and long-term career opportunities.Why it matters: Veterans bring leadership, resilience and technical expertise that strengthen workplaces and communities. These investments help remove barriers and create clearer pathways from military service to long-term economic opportunity in North Carolina.Where the funding is going:North Carolina Veterans Foundation
Expanding the North Carolina for Military Employment (NC4ME) Career Connections program statewide to better connect transitioning service members, veterans and military spouses with employers – supporting workforce training, employer engagement, and job placement efforts beyond military installation communities.Veterans Life Center
Supporting workforce development services for homeless and at-risk veterans, including career readiness training, community college enrollment and certification costs, resume and interview coaching, financial literacy education, and transportation assistance to help veterans secure and retain employment.Allies for Cherry Point's Tomorrow
Funding scholarships for transitioning Marines to enroll in short-term training and credential programs at Craven Community College, helping bridge gaps not covered by the GI Bill and prepare them for high-demand civilian careers.What they're saying: Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy's North Carolina president: "Across North Carolina, veterans are our neighbors, co-workers and community leaders. We're grateful for the organizations helping connect them with training, support and opportunities. This support is about honoring their service by helping open doors to meaningful careers close to home."Kimberly Williams, NC4ME Founder and Chief Executive Officer: "Duke Energy's America250 grant is a pivotal investment in North Carolina's veteran workforce. This support enables NC4ME to expand our regional footprint and ensure that veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses across every corner of the state have access to meaningful career opportunities. The grant strengthens our ability to accelerate employer engagement, deliver accredited HR training, and connect businesses with the skilled military talent that drives stronger economic outcomes."Big picture: These grants represent the second round of funding under the Duke Energy Foundation's America250 initiative, a more than $1 million investment in community-driven projects across the company's six states to recognize America's 250th anniversary.In April, the Foundation awarded $65,417 to help honor local history and expand access to shared spaces. Additional grant recipients will be announced in June, including programs expanding access to history and civics education.Duke Energy Foundation
Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.  Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities. Contact: Madison McDonald24-Hour: 800.559.3853  View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-invests-in-north-carolina-veterans-career-pathways-through-america250-grants-302777838.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy Original: Duke Energy invests in North Carolina veterans' career pathways through America250 grants

Duke Energy Foundation awards $50,000 to organizations honoring and supporting Florida veteransMay 19, 2026 11:52 AM
PR Newswire (US) ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., May 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As Memorial Day approaches, the Duke Energy Foundation is awarding $50,000 to five nonprofit organizations honoring and supporting Florida veterans. These grants – part of the Foundation's America250 initiative – will primarily help provide former service members with valuable job readiness skills, resources and connections as they transition to civilian life. Our view:Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president: "At Duke Energy, we have a long history of providing career opportunities for veterans, so we know the loyalty, integrity and high-tech skills they bring to any team. That's why we're proud to support these organizations and help empower veterans as they enter into new, meaningful professions."High-impact investments:The Foundation for Seminole State College's Mission Finish Line connects student veterans and facilitates networking, leadership development and specialized job training. The $15,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation will give participants access to employment fairs, internship opportunities and relevant seminars and conferences all across the country.With $7,500 from the Duke Energy Foundation, Friends of Palm Harbor Troop 26 will update the Scout Hut in downtown Palm Harbor to include an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant bathroom. This building serves as a meeting location for local Cub Scouts and Boy Scout troops and is overseen by several active service members and veterans.Gulf Coast Jewish Family and Community Services, leveraging $7,500 from the Duke Energy Foundation, will help veterans who have been honorably discharged prepare for their transition from military careers to private-sector jobs. Through the Tampa Bay Job Links program, they will receive personal and career coaching, as well as education and skills to support their job search.A $15,000 award from the Duke Energy Foundation will allow Heart of Florida United Way to expand its Mission United and Digital Horizons initiatives to deliver coordinated workforce development and digital access services to veterans, active-duty service members and their families across Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties.Taylor County Veterans Memorial Park will use $5,000 from the Duke Energy Foundation to establish additional monuments displaying names and dates of service for veterans.Positive response:John Gyllin, Foundation for Seminole State College vice president for resource and economic development and executive director: "America250 is a special time, and Duke Energy is making it more special for our veteran students at Seminole State College. We are humbled and thankful to receive support and partner with Duke Energy to support our veterans as they pursue meaningful degrees and certificates and better their lives. Thank you, Duke Energy."Janice Shermetaro, Friends of Palm Harbor Troop 26 vice president: "We are grateful for the support of the Duke Energy Foundation. We have had much success in preparing young people to make ethical and moral choices by teaching them the values of the Scout Oath and Law. Thank you for partnering with us so that we can continue our growth in the community."Dr. Sandra Braham, Gulf Coast Jewish Family and Community Services president and CEO: "As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, we are honored to help veterans and transitioning service members as they build meaningful careers beyond military service. These funds will help them translate their leadership, discipline and experience into new opportunities. Their service strengthened our nation, and it is our privilege to serve them in return."Norris Henderson, Heart of Florida United Way Mission United program manager: "Partnering with Duke Energy on our America250: Lighting the Way for Those who Served initiative has strengthened our organization's ability to guide veterans as they access training and certified credentials, establish industry connections and transition to meaningful employment. Nothing is more rewarding than witnessing a veteran reach a higher level of financial stability through our programs. For this, we are most grateful for this partnership with Duke Energy."Roy Grubbs, Taylor County Veterans Memorial Park chair: "Taylor County Veterans Memorial Park is grateful to have this partnership with Duke Energy. Their support helping us expand the park will enable us to continue the lasting tribute to Taylor County veterans that has stood for nearly two decades. This collaboration is a shared commitment to honoring veterans and investing in a place where community, remembrance and pride can grow together."More to come: These grants represent the second round of funds awarded under the Duke Energy Foundation's America250 initiative, a more than $1 million investment in community-driven projects throughout the company's six-state service area to recognize America's 250th anniversary. In April, the Foundation awarded $22,500 to help strengthen Florida communities, and additional grant recipients will be announced in June, including programs that expand access to history and civics education.Duke Energy Foundation 
The Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,500 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. Duke Energy 
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-foundation-awards-50-000-to-organizations-honoring-and-supporting-florida-veterans-302776460.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy Original: Duke Energy Foundation awards $50,000 to organizations honoring and supporting Florida veterans

Duke Energy Foundation Invests Over $250,000 to Support Veterans' Career Pathways Across 6 StatesMay 19, 2026 9:30 AM
PR Newswire (US) CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As Memorial Day approaches and communities honor the sacrifices of U.S. service members and their families, the Duke Energy Foundation is investing more than $250,000 to help veterans gain job-ready skills and build pathways to in-demand civilian careers.    Through its America250 initiative, the Foundation is awarding 20 grants to nonprofit organizations across Duke Energy's six-state service area, along with an investment in the United Service Organizations (USO). The grants will help provide career counseling, paid training, credentialing, digital skills, and wraparound services for veterans transitioning from military service.Why It MattersVeterans bring leadership, resilience and technical skills that strengthen workplaces and communities. These investments help remove barriers and create clearer pathways from military service to long-term economic opportunity."Our communities are stronger when veterans have access to the skills, training and opportunities needed to succeed after military service," said Loree Elswick, president of the Duke Energy Foundation. "Through America250, we're supporting trusted local organizations and national partners like the USO that help veterans translate their experience into meaningful civilian careers."What This EnablesAcross Duke Energy communities, these America250 grants support locally led solutions, including:Career counseling and job placement in South Carolina, where workforce development programs help justice involved veterans reenter the community with individualized career support and connections to employment.Digital skills and employer connections in Florida, expanding access to credentials, technology tools and workforce pathways aligned to in demand careers for veterans and their families.Paid training and workforce readiness in the Midwest, combining hands on job training, workforce preparation and veteran led service initiatives to support long term employment success.Scaling Impact NationwideIn addition to local grants, the Duke Energy Foundation is making a $25,000 investment in the USO to support delivery of its Transition Program, which helps service members and military spouses prepare for civilian careers through career readiness resources, skills translation and employment connections.The Bigger PictureThese grants build on the Foundation's more than $1 million investment through its America250 initiative.  Earlier this spring, the Foundation announced grants supporting projects that revitalize local parks, green spaces and shared community spaces. That funding builds on a $250,000 investment made last year to the Trust for the National Mall to support a free digital platform that enables communities nationwide to experience the National Mall's monuments and history.The final round of America250 grants – focused on elevating local history and strengthening civic connection in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky – will be announced in June.Duke Energy Foundation The Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.Duke EnergyDuke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Media Contact: Gina DiPietro
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90-degree heat on the way: Take these steps now to keep your home comfortable and manage energy useMay 13, 2026 12:54 PM
PR Newswire (US) What's happening: Temperatures are forecast to reach the 90s, pushing cooling systems to run longer and use more energy to maintain indoor temperaturesWhy it matters: Acting now with a few simple steps can help your cooling system run more efficiently during extreme heat and reduce energy useCHARLOTTE, N.C., May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Temperatures are expected to climb into the 90s in the coming days – and with humidity, it may feel closer to 95-100°F in parts of the Carolinas. For many customers, this may be the first time cooling systems are put to the test this season, causing them to run longer to maintain indoor comfort. Warm overnight temperatures can add to the strain, keeping systems running for extended periods. Duke Energy is encouraging customers to act now with simple steps and tools that can make a difference before the hottest days arrive – especially as spring's dry conditions and high pollen levels may already be restricting airflow for some outdoor units."With humidity, it can feel closer to 100 degrees – and that puts even more demand on cooling systems," said Max Thompson, lead energy meteorologist at Duke Energy. "If your system hasn't been running regularly yet this season, now is the time to get it ready. Spring pollen and dust buildup can clog filters and restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder. Changing your air filter and adjusting your thermostat are simple steps that can help your system run more efficiently when the heat really sets in."Start with these high-impact actions1. Clear the way for your cooling systemCheck and replace air filters so air can flow freelyDon't wait – clogged filters force your system to work harder and use more energyClear grass, leaves and debris from around your outdoor unit2. Schedule your free home energy assessmentGet expert guidance tailored to your homeLearn how your home uses energy and where to improve efficiencyReceive free energy-saving products installed during in-home assessmentsThis free service helps identify ways your home can perform more efficiently during periods of high heat.3. Adjust your thermostat – and let technology helpSet your thermostat to the highest comfortable setting when you're homeRaise it a few degrees when you're awayCooling is often the largest energy user in the home – every degree mattersSmart thermostats can help automate adjustments and make it easier to stay consistent – and now is a great time to act.Get up to 65% off ecobee smart thermostats* through May 25 in Duke Energy's Online StoreShop the offer here: Shop the Summer SaleFind more ways to get ready for the heatDuke Energy is here to help customers manage energy use during the summer heat with programs, solutions and practical tips.Explore tools, programs and practical solutions at: duke-energy.com/SummerSolutionsDuke Energy Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities. *Limit 2 smart thermostats per customer account. While supplies last.
Final price may reflect manufacturer and distributor discounts plus Duke Energy regulated utility energy efficiency incentives.24-Hour: 800.559.3853  View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/90-degree-heat-on-the-way-take-these-steps-now-to-keep-your-home-comfortable-and-manage-energy-use-302771299.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy Original: 90-degree heat on the way: Take these steps now to keep your home comfortable and manage energy use

Duke Energy applies for Department of Energy loans that represent potentially billions of dollars in customer savingsMay 11, 2026 10:30 AM
PR Newswire (US) CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy today announced it submitted an application for loans from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) that represent potentially billions of dollars in customer savings as the company strengthens the electric grid, adds capacity and reliably serves some of the fastest-growing states in the country. This application to the DOE is the first step in a process to negotiate the final loan amount and stipulations. What this means: Duke Energy is applying for DOE loans to support planned investments to reliably meet rising energy demand at the lowest cost to customers:DOE financing would reduce interest costs for these critical investments and deliver direct customer benefits.DOE financing is expected to save customers money through lower financing costs.Duke Energy's state-regulated, integrated utility model enables reduced financing costs to flow directly to customers while supporting reliable service and measurable value. Coordinated planning and operation of the entire electric system under strong regulatory oversight help ensure investments are prudent and keep customer costs down. As a result of this structure, rates in all of our vertically integrated states are below the national average.Why this matters: Today's announcements represent the company's latest effort to leverage federal support and other measures to save customers money. This month, the company announced it was delivering more than $5 billion in cost-saving benefits to customers from the combination of its Carolinas utilities and tax-credit savings, including nuclear and solar production tax credits and investment tax credits expected to be generated between 2025 and 2028 in Florida and the Carolinas.Our view: "Delivering reliable power at the lowest possible cost is central to every decision we make," said Harry Sideris, president and CEO of Duke Energy. "That means pursuing every opportunity like federal loans when they can help reduce costs for customers. As energy demand continues to grow, our focus is on strengthening the system, investing responsibly and ensuring customers see the benefit of those investments now and into the future."Duke EnergyDuke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Riley Cook
24-Hour: 800.559.3853 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-applies-for-department-of-energy-loans-that-represent-potentially-billions-of-dollars-in-customer-savings-302768293.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy Original: Duke Energy applies for Department of Energy loans that represent potentially billions of dollars in customer savings

Duke Energy announces dividend payments to shareholdersMay 7, 2026 2:00 PM
PR Newswire (US) CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) today declared a quarterly cash dividend on its common stock of $1.065 per share. This dividend is payable on June 16, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business on May 15, 2026. The company also declared a quarterly cash dividend on its Series A preferred stock of $359.375 per share payable on June 16, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business on May 15, 2026. This is equivalent to $0.359375 per depositary share.Duke Energy has paid a cash dividend on its common stock for 100 consecutive years.Duke EnergyDuke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Media Contact: Gillian Moore
24-hour: 800.559.3853Analyst Contact: Mike Switzer
Office: 704.382.6473 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-announces-dividend-payments-to-shareholders-302766057.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy Original: Duke Energy announces dividend payments to shareholders

Duke Energy finalizes two initiatives to deliver more than $5 billion in cost-saving benefits to customersMay 4, 2026 10:58 AM
PR Newswire (US)

Estimated $2.3 billion in savings for customers expected from combination of Carolinas utilitiesSafe, reliable, low-cost power plant operations and new investments to deliver up to $3.1 billion in tax savings for customers to keep costs lower over timeCHARLOTTE, N.C., May 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy is committed to providing safe and reliable energy at the lowest possible cost and is delivering on that promise with more than $5 billion in cost-saving benefits to the customers and communities it serves.







Savings will be achieved through operational innovation and efficiencies designed to lower costs, while protecting reliability and supporting long-term economic growth. These actions are part of our unwavering commitment to deliver affordable energy for our customers across all our states, leveraging our scope and scale to achieve top-tier cost management.At the core of these benefits is Duke Energy's proposed combination of the company's two electric utilities in the Carolinas – Duke Energy Carolinas and Duke Energy Progress.Why it matters: Approved last week by the North Carolina Utilities Commission and Public Service Commission of South Carolina after a settlement with nearly all parties, the combination is projected to provide approximately $2.3 billion in net customer savings from 2027 to 2040, compared with a scenario in which the utilities remained separate, with additional savings expected in the 2040s and beyond.All savings will flow to customers. The targeted effective date of the utility combination is Jan. 1, 2027.More good news: Duke Energy last week also completed a new, multi-year agreement to sell up to $3.1 billion in net tax credits, including nuclear and solar production tax credits and investment tax credits expected to be generated between 2025 and 2028 in Florida and the Carolinas, delivering long-term savings to customers.The agreement locks in pricing and ensures the ability to monetize this substantial amount of credits over this time period.The net value of these credits, generated through highly reliable operation of Duke Energy nuclear plants and solar sites, as well as investment in these and other technologies, will be returned to customers through rates over time, subject to approval by regulators.Our view: "These actions reflect Duke Energy's relentless focus to operate more efficiently, reduce long-term customer costs and strengthen the energy future of the states we serve," said Harry Sideris, president and CEO of Duke Energy. "As our customers face rising costs across the board for everything from gasoline to groceries to other necessities of life, our commitment is to turn over every stone and use every tool we can to help our customers navigate these challenging times, manage their energy use and save – while also delivering the high quality of service they expect and deserve."Zoom in: Here are just a few of the steps we have taken to reduce costs where possible and deliver savings to customers across all of our states:Returning $210 million of savings to Carolinas customers in 2025-2026 through nuclear production tax credits.Saving Carolinas customers nearly $600 million on recovery from major storms like Helene through storm bonds.Shared with Florida customers approximately $65 million in production tax credits in 2025. That amount grows each year as more solar power is placed in service.By enhancing the efficiency of our Florida natural gas plants in 2025, we've achieved the output of a new power plant without building one – saving more than $340 million in fuel costs. Customers are estimated to save an additional $150 million to $200 million annually in reduced fuel costs from fleet enhancement investments through 2027.To protect existing customers in every state we serve, our contracts with large-load customers, like data centers, now include additional provisions to help ensure these facilities pay the costs of delivering service to their sites, and those costs are not transferred to other customers.  What they're saying:Duke Energy North Carolina President Kendal Bowman: "We're pleased the commission agrees our North Carolina customers will see significant future cost savings and other meaningful benefits from combining our two utilities in the Carolinas. It will reduce customer costs, simplify operations, promote regulatory efficiencies, and support economic growth across the Carolinas. We're grateful to the organizations that joined the settlement agreement and recognize the meaningful benefits combining our two utilities will deliver to our customers."S.C. Governor Henry McMaster: "Duke Energy continues to deliver for the people of South Carolina. This approval will help keep energy reliable and affordable while meeting the demands of our state. It strengthens our ability to power homes and support businesses, ensuring South Carolina remains a place where opportunity and prosperity continue well into the future."N.C. Chamber President and CEO Gary Salamido: "As North Carolina stands at a pivotal moment in its energy trajectory, we applaud Duke Energy's efforts to pursue innovative solutions that help keep costs down for customers. Reliable, cost-effective energy is essential to keeping our communities strong and ensuring North Carolina remains the top state to do business."Associated Industries of Florida President & Chief Executive Officer Brewster B. Bevis: "Duke Energy Florida is continuing to focus on delivering record-level reliability, while keeping costs as low as possible. The company's investments in technology and infrastructure support the state's rapid growth, meet the demands of commercial customers and make Florida an even better place to conduct business."Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities. Contact: Jeff Brooks24-Hour: 800.559.3853 



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-finalizes-two-initiatives-to-deliver-more-than-5-billion-in-cost-saving-benefits-to-customers-302761444.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Duke Energy finalizes two initiatives to deliver more than $5 billion in cost-saving benefits to customers

South Carolina customers projected to benefit from billions in long-term savings from approved combination of Duke Energy utilitiesApril 30, 2026 3:31 PM
PR Newswire (US)

Agreement approved by the Public Service Commission of South Carolina outlines guaranteed savings and long-term cost reductionsGREENVILLE, S.C., April 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- South Carolina customers are projected to benefit from billions of dollars in savings over time after the Public Service Commission of South Carolina approved a settlement on Duke Energy's proposed combination of Duke Energy Carolinas and Duke Energy Progress, an agreement designed to deliver measurable, trackable customer savings backed by shareholder guarantees.







All benefits of the combination will flow to customers.Our view: "This approval by the commission is about delivering real, long-term savings for our South Carolina customers," said Tim Pearson, Duke Energy's South Carolina president. "By combining our two utilities, we will reduce customer costs, simplify operations, promote regulatory efficiencies, and support economic growth across the Carolinas. We're grateful to the organizations that joined the settlement agreement and to the commission for its thorough and careful review of the meaningful benefits combining our two utilities will deliver to our customers."Why it matters: By operating as one utility, Duke Energy expects to serve the Carolinas' growing energy needs at a lower cost than if the companies remained separate, with billions of dollars in projected, long-term savings shared by customers in both states, a demonstration of our commitment to finding ways to keep energy prices lower than they otherwise would be as consumer costs continue to increase on many everyday products and services. Key customer savings commitments in the approved agreement include:Duke Energy guarantees hundreds of millions of dollars in future customer savings from what would otherwise occur that can only be achieved through the combination.Savings come from both lower operating (production) costs and lower capital costs through more efficient system operation and planning:Production cost savings include using less fuel and avoiding or reducing purchases of out-of-state energy.Capital cost savings include removing 200 megawatts of battery storage from Duke Energy's long-range plan while maintaining reliability.Duke Energy guarantees that the savings generated by the combination will be sufficient to cover the costs necessary to bring the companies together. If those savings fall short, the company will make up the difference.Guaranteed savings will be assessed cumulatively over a 14-year period.Duke Energy will track results and report annually to state regulators on customer savings achieved until the transaction has fully covered its costs.Additional savings are expected as Duke Energy's long-range plans evolve. An analysis filed in October 2025, based on updated modeling supporting the 2025 South Carolina IRP Update, projected approximately $2.3 billion in net customer savings from 2027 to 2040, relative to a scenario in which the combination was not approved, with more savings expected in the 2040s and beyond.What's next: The North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) must still approve the combination. A decision is expected in the second quarter of 2026. The combination was previously approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission on Jan. 30. If all regulatory approvals are received, the targeted effective date of the combination is Jan. 1, 2027.Duke Energy Carolinas
Duke Energy Carolinas, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 20,900 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 3 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 24,000-square-mile service area in North Carolina and South Carolina.Duke Energy Progress
Duke Energy Progress, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 14,100 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 1.8 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 28,000-square-mile service area in North Carolina and South Carolina.Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities. Contact: Ryan Mosier
24-Hour: 800.559.3853



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/south-carolina-customers-projected-to-benefit-from-billions-in-long-term-savings-from-approved-combination-of-duke-energy-utilities-302759404.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: South Carolina customers projected to benefit from billions in long-term savings from approved combination of Duke Energy utilities

Duke Energy Foundation invests $275,000 in nonprofits supporting Floridians' most essential needsApril 28, 2026 11:21 AM
PR Newswire (US)

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., April 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Duke Energy Foundation is awarding $275,000 to 15 nonprofit organizations that are helping meet Floridians' most basic, essential needs and increasing access to quality health care, affordable housing, workforce development and more.







High-impact investments:Statewide ($25,000)Florida Council on Aging ($25,000)Tampa Bay Area ($120,000)Bay Area Chamber Foundation/Leadership St. Pete ($10,000)Feeding Tampa Bay ($20,000)Interactive Food Truck Academy ($15,000)The Jackson Copeland Foundation ($10,000)St. Petersburg Free Clinic ($45,000)Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA ($5,000)Wheels of Success ($15,000)Central Florida ($130,000)Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida ($20,000)Find, Feed & Restore ($20,000)HOPE Helps ($10,000)Neighborhood Center of West Volusia ($10,000)Rescue Outreach Mission of Central Florida ($10,000)Shepherd's Hope ($50,000)West Orange Habitat for Humanity ($10,000)For descriptions of how each grant will be used and the specific counties impacted, please click here.  Our view:Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president: "Duke Energy doesn't just work in these communities – many of our employees live here, too. It's incredibly important, to all of us, that we give back and help create lasting, positive change for our friends and neighbors. We're thankful for the opportunity to partner with organizations already doing just that, and we look forward to seeing how our efforts will allow Floridians to live their best lives and ultimately instill generational success." Positive response:Colette Vallee, Florida Council on Aging chief operating officer: "This collaboration with Duke Energy is more than a financial contribution to purchase shelf-stable meals. It will help older adults prepare for potential emergencies, with the additional benefit of educating them about energy efficiency and financial assistance programs. Together, we are building a relationship with seniors and vulnerable populations so they can weather the storm."Savannah-Jane Griffin, Neighborhood Center of West Volusia chief executive officer: "Partnering with Duke Energy Foundation to advance housing affordability means more than restoring buildings – it means restoring stability and dignity for families facing financial crisis. Reliable, safe and energy-efficient housing is foundational to long-term success, and this collaboration allows us to preserve critical shelter and transitional housing resources for our community's most vulnerable neighbors. We are deeply grateful for Duke Energy's investment in strengthening families and powering pathways out of homelessness."Sophia Moe, Leadership St. Pete director of events and logistics: "On behalf of Leadership St. Pete, we are incredibly grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for investing in our community project with the Lealman and Asian Neighborhood Family Center. Your support strengthens vital programs and will help us build a safe, welcoming place for children and families in Lealman to gather, learn and play. We look forward to building a meaningful partnership that creates lasting impact together."Jennifer Yeagley, St. Petersburg Free Clinic chief executive officer: "We're grateful for the support Duke Energy has provided St. Petersburg Free Clinic for more than 25 years. Grants from the Duke Energy Foundation have helped our neighbors address pressing medical concerns and, most recently, have helped ensure that our community has access to nutritious food. We sincerely appreciate their partnership."Susan Eklin, Shepherd's Hope interim president and chief executive officer: "Our partnership with the Duke Energy Foundation strengthens Shepherd's Hope's mission to ensure that every uninsured neighbor in Central Florida has access to compassionate, high-quality health care. Together, through the Promoting Equitable Access to Healthcare and Wellness initiative, we are breaking down barriers, expanding vital services and creating pathways to wellness for those who need it most. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to equity, dignity and the belief that access to health care is essential for every person and every community to thrive."Duke Energy Foundation
The Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,500 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Aly Raschid
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
X: @DE_AlyRaschid



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-foundation-invests-275-000-in-nonprofits-supporting-floridians-most-essential-needs-302755926.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Duke Energy Foundation invests $275,000 in nonprofits supporting Floridians' most essential needs

Duke Energy commits $1 million to strengthen nonprofits helping North Carolina customers meet essential needsApril 27, 2026 10:13 AM
PR Newswire (US)

$500,000 will be awarded to 20 nonprofits supporting seniors – applications open through May 29Additional $500,000 to support Share the Light Fund® agencies statewideCHARLOTTE, N.C., April 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Duke Energy Foundation is committing $1 million to support nonprofit organizations across North Carolina that deliver critical community services, including housing stability, food access, health care, utility assistance and more.







Our view: "Community partners play an essential role across the state by delivering trusted, on-the-ground support and connecting neighbors to resources that help them remain safe, healthy and independent," said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy's North Carolina president. "We're grateful for their leadership and dedication to making the communities we serve stronger."High-impact investmentsSupporting seniors statewide: With nearly one in five North Carolinians approaching or already in retirement age, the Foundation is awarding $500,000 to support organizations that help seniors age in place and access essentials like housing assistance, food programs, transportation and benefits navigation.Qualifying nonprofits can apply by May 29 for $25,000 grants.Strengthening Share the Light Fund agencies: The Duke Energy Foundation is investing an additional $500,000 in Share the Light Fund agencies, supporting nonprofit partners that assist neighbors with utility-related needs and other essential services.More than $1 million has been distributed through Share the Light Fund in 2026 to date.Customers who would like to access funds can visit Share the Light Fund to learn more.Duke Energy Foundation
Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.  Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Madison McDonald
24-Hour: 800.559.3853



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-commits-1-million-to-strengthen-nonprofits-helping-north-carolina-customers-meet-essential-needs-302754338.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Duke Energy commits $1 million to strengthen nonprofits helping North Carolina customers meet essential needs

/C O R R E C T I O N -- Duke Energy/April 22, 2026 1:20 PM
PR Newswire (US)

In the news release, Duke Energy Foundation announces first round of America250 grants to strengthen and protect South Carolina green spaces, issued 22-Apr-2026 by Duke Energy over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that the attribution in the third paragraph contained a misspelling and should be "Pearson." The complete, corrected release follows:
Duke Energy Foundation announces first round of America250 grants to strengthen and protect South Carolina green spaces
Funding celebrates Earth Day with $275,000 for trees, trails and parks projectsGREENVILLE, S.C., April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- To strengthen communities across South Carolina as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, Duke Energy Foundation is awarding $275,000 to nonprofit organizations through a first round of funding as part of its America250 initiative.







Where the money goes: The grants – part of a total investment of more than $550,000 in the Palmetto State – will help revitalize parks and shared green spaces, support tree planting, trail maintenance and litter prevention.Our view: "As we look back on our country's 250-year anniversary, it's an opportunity to reflect on our nation's history while working to support the next generation," said Tim Pearson, Duke Energy South Carolina president. "We are proud to partner with local organizations who can help care for the Palmetto State now, so future generations can enjoy its beauty. Together, we can create lasting impact in the communities where we live and work."Bottom line: This first-round of funding is for 11 grants. In addition, the company is continuing support of environmental stewardship programs with the City of Florence and TreesUpstate.Friends of Andrews LibraryCity of FlorenceFoothills Trail ConservancyKalmia GardensKC TrailsOpen Space Institute (OSI)Palmetto ConservationPalmettoPride ChaptersSouth Carolina Wildlife FederationSumter GreenThe Nature Conservancy in South CarolinaTreesUpstateUpstate Greenways & Trails AlliancePositive response: Matt Flege, Executive Director, Upstate Greenways & Trails Alliance: "The America250 grant from the will allow us to create a new trail showcasing the beauty of Lake Keowee to South Carolina residents and visitors alike, while also telling the story of the Revolutionary War in the South Carolina frontier at Fort Prince George.  We're grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for this opportunity help people enjoy the natural beauty and history of Upstate South Carolina!"Susan H. Wild, Chair, Sumter Green: "As we celebrate 30 years of beautifying Sumter, this investment strengthens our commitment to creating vibrant entryways, green spaces, and corridors that reflect the pride of our community. This funding allows us to expand our Green Legacy efforts ensuring that what we plant, build, and enhance today will serve generations to come. Partnerships like this truly make a difference, and together, we continue to invest in a stronger, more beautiful Sumter."Sarah Lyles, Executive Director, PalmettoPride: "Duke Energy has been a long-time supporter of community improvement in South Carolina and in particular with our Keep South Carolina Beautiful affiliates. This grant award will go a long way to support cleanup efforts and beautification projects as we work to get our communities ready to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our great country."More to come: These grants represent the first announced awards under Duke Energy Foundation's America250 initiative, a more than $1 million investment in community-driven projects throughout the company's six state service territories to recognize America's 250th anniversary. Additional grant recipients will be announced later this spring, including support for veterans' workforce pathways and initiatives that expand access to history and civics education.Duke Energy Foundation
The Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Catherine Ramirez
24-Hour: 800.559.3853 



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-foundation-announces-first-round-of-america250-grants-to-strengthen-and-protect-south-carolina-green-spaces-302750398.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: /C O R R E C T I O N -- Duke Energy/

Duke Energy Foundation announces first round of America250 grants to strengthen and protect South Carolina green spacesApril 22, 2026 9:45 AM
PR Newswire (US)

Funding celebrates Earth Day with $275,000 for trees, trails and parks projectsGREENVILLE, S.C., April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- To strengthen communities across South Carolina as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, Duke Energy Foundation is awarding $275,000 to nonprofit organizations through a first round of funding as part of its America250 initiative.







Where the money goes: The grants – part of a total investment of more than $550,000 in the Palmetto State – will help revitalize parks and shared green spaces, support tree planting, trail maintenance and litter prevention.Our view: "As we look back on our country's 250-year anniversary, it's an opportunity to reflect on our nation's history while working to support the next generation," said Tim Peason, Duke Energy South Carolina president. "We are proud to partner with local organizations who can help care for the Palmetto State now, so future generations can enjoy its beauty. Together, we can create lasting impact in the communities where we live and work."Bottom line: This first-round of funding is for 11 grants. In addition, the company is continuing support of environmental stewardship programs with the City of Florence and TreesUpstate.Friends of Andrews LibraryCity of FlorenceFoothills Trail ConservancyKalmia GardensKC TrailsOpen Space Institute (OSI)Palmetto ConservationPalmettoPride ChaptersSouth Carolina Wildlife FederationSumter GreenThe Nature Conservancy in South CarolinaTreesUpstateUpstate Greenways & Trails AlliancePositive response: Matt Flege, Executive Director, Upstate Greenways & Trails Alliance: "The America250 grant from the will allow us to create a new trail showcasing the beauty of Lake Keowee to South Carolina residents and visitors alike, while also telling the story of the Revolutionary War in the South Carolina frontier at Fort Prince George.  We're grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for this opportunity help people enjoy the natural beauty and history of Upstate South Carolina!"Susan H. Wild, Chair, Sumter Green: "As we celebrate 30 years of beautifying Sumter, this investment strengthens our commitment to creating vibrant entryways, green spaces, and corridors that reflect the pride of our community. This funding allows us to expand our Green Legacy efforts ensuring that what we plant, build, and enhance today will serve generations to come. Partnerships like this truly make a difference, and together, we continue to invest in a stronger, more beautiful Sumter."Sarah Lyles, Executive Director, PalmettoPride: "Duke Energy has been a long-time supporter of community improvement in South Carolina and in particular with our Keep South Carolina Beautiful affiliates. This grant award will go a long way to support cleanup efforts and beautification projects as we work to get our communities ready to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our great country."More to come: These grants represent the first announced awards under Duke Energy Foundation's America250 initiative, a more than $1 million investment in community-driven projects throughout the company's six state service territories to recognize America's 250th anniversary. Additional grant recipients will be announced later this spring, including support for veterans' workforce pathways and initiatives that expand access to history and civics education.Duke Energy Foundation
The Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Catherine Ramirez
24-Hour: 800.559.3853 



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-foundation-announces-first-round-of-america250-grants-to-strengthen-and-protect-south-carolina-green-spaces-302750398.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Duke Energy Foundation announces first round of America250 grants to strengthen and protect South Carolina green spaces

/C O R R E C T I O N -- Duke Energy/April 21, 2026 4:27 PM
PR Newswire (US)

In the news release, Powering Reliability: Duke Energy lineworkers sharpen skills at Carolinas Lineman's regional rodeo, issued 21-Apr-2026 by Duke Energy over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that changes have been made. The complete, corrected release follows:
Powering Reliability: Duke Energy lineworkers sharpen skills at Carolinas Lineman's regional rodeo
30 regional winners advance to the International Lineman's Rodeo this fall, reinforcing the skills customers rely on for safe, reliable powerNEW HILL, N.C., April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy lineworkers from across the Carolinas advanced from a regional rodeo over the weekend to represent the company at the International Lineman's Rodeo in October in Bonner Springs, Kan., where they will compete against top lineworkers from around the world.







Why it matters: For customers, reliability starts with highly trained lineworkers. These competitions sharpen the real-world skills lineworkers use every day – working quickly and safely to keep power flowing and restoring service when outages occur.By practicing complex repairs and power restoration work in a controlled, deenergized environment, lineworkers reinforce strict safety standards and best practices that carry directly into the field. This hands-on preparation leads to a more resilient grid and quicker restoration during outages, improving reliability for customers.What they're saying:PETE WEHR, REGIONAL SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF POWER GRID OPERATIONS FOR DUKE ENERGY (EAST):
"Every drill, every practice climb and every task at this rodeo comes back to one thing: serving our customers. By constantly sharpening our skills and holding ourselves to the highest safety standards, our crews are better prepared to restore power faster, strengthen reliability and do the work that will build the grid of the future. That commitment shows up every day in the communities we serve." ANTIONIO PRICE, REGIONAL SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF POWER GRID OPERATIONS FOR DUKE ENERGY (WEST):
"What our lineworkers demonstrate at this rodeo is what customers depend on year-round – strong safety practices, advanced training and a relentless focus on reliability. These events reinforce the expertise that helps restore power faster, strengthen the grid and deliver dependable service when it matters most. We're proud to recognize the dedication behind that work."Quinnton Smith, apprentice lineworker:
"I'm extremely grateful for the win and getting another chance to compete at the International Lineman's Rodeo this year. I'm proud of my fellow apprentices from Duke Energy Little Rock Operation Center for placing as well and am excited for us to get to compete together at the next level. We are thankful to do this job and be able to serve our customers in the best possible way every day."The results:Apprentice Overall Awards East DivisionFirst place – Derby Harris (Roxboro, N.C.)Second place – Mathew Lorenz (Raleigh, N.C.)Third place – George Bassan (Wilmington, N.C.)West DivisionFirst place – Quinnton Smith (Seven Springs, N.C.)Second place – Tyler Eberhardt (Charlotte, N.C.)Third place – Carlos Ibarra (Lincolnton, N.C.)Overall Best Apprentice – Quinnton Smith (Seven Springs, N.C.)Journeyman Overall Awards East DivisionFirst place – William Gandy (Hartsville, S.C.), Joshua Haithcock (Sardis, S.C.), Zachary Haithcock (Timmonsville, S.C.)Second place – Austin Bowden (Benson, N.C.), Ryan Denning (Benson, N.C.), Lane Pickett (Louisburg, N.C.)Third place – Gavin Frederick (Wilton, N.C.), Tyler Pegram (Henderson, N.C.), Preston Pernell (Kittrell, N.C.)West DivisionFirst place – Joshua Buckner (Marion, N.C.), Tyler Manick (Old Fort, N.C.), Tyler Nickols (Marion, N.C.)Second place – Miles Bell (Tryon, N.C.), Heath Burrell (Hendersonville, N.C.), Jordan Henderson (Hendersonville, N.C.)Third place – Ethan Anders (Travelers Rest, S.C.), Jay Bagwell (Travelers Rest, S.C.), John Hightower (Travelers Rest, S.C.)Overall Best Journeyman Team – Joshua Buckner (Marion, N.C.), Tyler Manick (Old Fort, N.C.), Tyler Nickols (Marion, N.C.)Overall best senior team, East Division – Matt Clark (Southern Pines, N.C.), Hunter Boone (Benson, N.C.), Danny Haithcock (Timmonsville, N.C.) Overall best senior team, West Division – Sandy Barnhill (Fuquay-Varina, N.C.), Keith Griffin (Marshall, N.C.), Jay Tipton (Marshall, N.C.)The 2026 Carolinas Lineman's Rodeo was supported by company and community volunteers, including 47 Duke Energy volunteers, 30 volunteer students and staff from five community colleges, 79 event judges and eight bucket truck operators.Duke Energy Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Logan Stewart
24-Hour: 800.559.3853Correction: In the quote from Quinnton Smith, "Duke Energy Operation Center" has been updated to "Duke Energy Little Rock Operation Center".



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Original: /C O R R E C T I O N -- Duke Energy/

Powering Reliability: Duke Energy lineworkers sharpen skills at Carolinas Lineman's regional rodeoApril 21, 2026 10:34 AM
PR Newswire (US)

30 regional winners advance to the International Lineman's Rodeo this fall, reinforcing the skills customers rely on for safe, reliable powerNEW HILL, N.C., April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy lineworkers from across the Carolinas advanced from a regional rodeo over the weekend to represent the company at the International Lineman's Rodeo in October in Bonner Springs, Kan., where they will compete against top lineworkers from around the world.







Why it matters: For customers, reliability starts with highly trained lineworkers. These competitions sharpen the real-world skills lineworkers use every day – working quickly and safely to keep power flowing and restoring service when outages occur.By practicing complex repairs and power restoration work in a controlled, deenergized environment, lineworkers reinforce strict safety standards and best practices that carry directly into the field. This hands-on preparation leads to a more resilient grid and quicker restoration during outages, improving reliability for customers.What they're saying:PETE WEHR, REGIONAL SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF POWER GRID OPERATIONS FOR DUKE ENERGY (EAST):
"Every drill, every practice climb and every task at this rodeo comes back to one thing: serving our customers. By constantly sharpening our skills and holding ourselves to the highest safety standards, our crews are better prepared to restore power faster, strengthen reliability and do the work that will build the grid of the future. That commitment shows up every day in the communities we serve." ANTIONIO PRICE, REGIONAL SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF POWER GRID OPERATIONS FOR DUKE ENERGY (WEST):
"What our lineworkers demonstrate at this rodeo is what customers depend on year-round – strong safety practices, advanced training and a relentless focus on reliability. These events reinforce the expertise that helps restore power faster, strengthen the grid and deliver dependable service when it matters most. We're proud to recognize the dedication behind that work."Quinnton Smith, apprentice lineworker:
"I'm extremely grateful for the win and getting another chance to compete at the International Lineman's Rodeo this year. I'm proud of my fellow apprentices from Duke Energy Operation Center for placing as well and am excited for us to get to compete together at the next level. We are thankful to do this job and be able to serve our customers in the best possible way every day."The results:Apprentice Overall Awards East DivisionFirst place – Derby Harris (Roxboro, N.C.)Second place – Mathew Lorenz (Raleigh, N.C.)Third place – George Bassan (Wilmington, N.C.)West DivisionFirst place – Quinnton Smith (Seven Springs, N.C.)Second place – Tyler Eberhardt (Charlotte, N.C.)Third place – Carlos Ibarra (Lincolnton, N.C.)Overall Best Apprentice – Quinnton Smith (Seven Springs, N.C.)Journeyman Overall Awards East DivisionFirst place – William Gandy (Hartsville, S.C.), Joshua Haithcock (Sardis, S.C.), Zachary Haithcock (Timmonsville, S.C.)Second place – Austin Bowden (Benson, N.C.), Ryan Denning (Benson, N.C.), Lane Pickett (Louisburg, N.C.)Third place – Gavin Frederick (Wilton, N.C.), Tyler Pegram (Henderson, N.C.), Preston Pernell (Kittrell, N.C.)West DivisionFirst place – Joshua Buckner (Marion, N.C.), Tyler Manick (Old Fort, N.C.), Tyler Nickols (Marion, N.C.)Second place – Miles Bell (Tryon, N.C.), Heath Burrell (Hendersonville, N.C.), Jordan Henderson (Hendersonville, N.C.)Third place – Ethan Anders (Travelers Rest, S.C.), Jay Bagwell (Travelers Rest, S.C.), John Hightower (Travelers Rest, S.C.)Overall Best Journeyman Team – Joshua Buckner (Marion, N.C.), Tyler Manick (Old Fort, N.C.), Tyler Nickols (Marion, N.C.)Overall best senior team, East Division – Matt Clark (Southern Pines, N.C.), Hunter Boone (Benson, N.C.), Danny Haithcock (Timmonsville, N.C.) Overall best senior team, West Division – Sandy Barnhill (Fuquay-Varina, N.C.), Keith Griffin (Marshall, N.C.), Jay Tipton (Marshall, N.C.)The 2026 Carolinas Lineman's Rodeo was supported by company and community volunteers, including 47 Duke Energy volunteers, 30 volunteer students and staff from five community colleges, 79 event judges and eight bucket truck operators.Duke Energy Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Logan Stewart
24-Hour: 800.559.3853 



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Original: Powering Reliability: Duke Energy lineworkers sharpen skills at Carolinas Lineman's regional rodeo

Duke Energy Foundation announces first round of America250 grants to strengthen Florida communitiesApril 16, 2026 11:35 AM
PR Newswire (US)

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., April 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- To strengthen communities across Florida as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, the Duke Energy Foundation is awarding $22,500 to five nonprofit organizations through its America250 initiative. The grants are part of a first-round investment totaling more than $250,000 across the company's six-state service area.







High-impact investments:The Citizens of Gulf County Recovery Team is preserving affordable housing for Gulf County residents. On 10 lots donated by the Gulf County Board of County Commissioners, the organization is building homes that, while valued at $450,000, will be offered to eligible buyers – prioritizing county and city employees, first responders, health care workers and educators – with a mortgage of approximately $250,000 (considering the donated lot and other subsidies). The $5,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation will help offset the cost of purchasing energy efficient appliances for each home.With $5,000 from the Duke Energy Foundation, the Foundation for Parks & Recreation Community Support will build an ADA-compliant dune walkover boardwalk at Sunset Park in Mexico Beach. The boardwalk will provide safe, sustainable access over the existing dune system, allowing both local residents and visitors with mobility challenges to reach the shoreline without impacting the dunes' integrity or role as a natural storm buffer. 
 The Jefferson County Historical Association will use $5,000 from the Duke Energy Foundation to transform the City of Monticello into a "living celebration of American independence" leading up to and on the Fourth of July. The observance will include a Tribute to the Troops concert, a fireworks display and other immersive, multi-generational activities.A $2,500 award from the Duke Energy Foundation will allow Keep Alachua County Beautiful to participate in the nation's largest community improvement program, the Great American Cleanup. Conducted over a two-month period from April through May, the program will mobilize volunteers to clean public spaces, address illegal dumping and promote greater awareness around waste reduction and responsible disposal.The All Veterans Center in Polk County will provide nearly 1,000 hot meals for veterans and their families at two separate events, one in the spring and another at the end of the year, using $5,000 from the Duke Energy Foundation to purchase food.Positive response:Kathy Gilbert, Citizens of Gulf County Recovery Team executive director: "We are grateful for Duke Energy's support. Safe and affordable housing for our citizens takes commitment from the public, corporate and government sectors. It lies at the core of a healthy, sustainable community. Duke Energy knows that and their generosity means a great deal to a great many."Kimberly Shoaf, Foundation for Parks & Recreation Community Support vice president: "The partnership between Duke Energy and PARCs to assist in providing an ADA-compliant walkover in Mexico Beach is a testament to strong community support. We appreciate Duke Energy's continued investment in the communities they serve and their role in helping create accessibility for all."Claudette McRae, Jefferson County Historical Association treasurer: "Jefferson County enthusiastically anticipates partnering with Duke Energy to celebrate our nation's 250th anniversary. Duke Energy has always been a leader in our county and played an active role in its future growth."Carlos Gonzalez, Keep Alachua County Beautiful executive director: "This investment directly strengthens our effort to build neighborhood pride, reduce blight and encourage long-term stewardship throughout Alachua County. We are truly grateful for Duke Energy's partnership and thank them for believing in our mission to create cleaner, greener and more vibrant communities."Harvey R. Engle, All Veterans Center chief operating officer: "We are afforded opportunities to provide special activities for our veterans through the kindness and generosity of community minded businesses such as Duke Energy. Thank you, Duke Energy, for your support and desire to be a part of our veteran care process."More to come: These grants represent the first announced awards under the Duke Energy Foundation's America250 initiative, a more than $1 million investment in community-driven projects throughout the company's service territories to recognize America's 250th anniversary. Additional grant recipients will be announced later this spring, including support for veterans' workforce pathways and initiatives that expand access to history and civics education.Duke Energy Foundation 
The Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,500 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. Duke Energy 
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Aly Raschid
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
X: @DE_AlyRaschid



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Original: Duke Energy Foundation announces first round of America250 grants to strengthen Florida communities

Ahead of Earth Day, Duke Energy Foundation announces first round of America250 grants to revitalize local parks and green spacesApril 16, 2026 9:25 AM
PR Newswire (US)

32 grants totaling more than $250,000 enable community-led park and green space projects across six statesCHARLOTTE, N.C., April 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Duke Energy Foundation has awarded 32 grants totaling more than $250,000 to local nonprofit organizations working to revitalize parks, playgrounds and shared green spaces across North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky and Florida.







Grant funding will support community-led cleanups, public landscaping efforts, playground improvements and trail enhancements – helping strengthen outdoor spaces where families and individuals gather for recreation, connection and community events.Why It MattersThese grants represent the first announced awards under the Duke Energy Foundation's America250 initiative, a more than $1 million investment supporting community-driven projects across the company's service territories in recognition of America's 250th anniversary.The investment coincides with Earth Day volunteer efforts, as Duke Energy employees participate in park cleanups and beautification projects across the communities they live and work in. Together, these grants and volunteer efforts help improve shared spaces while delivering tangible, local impact.Additional America250 grant recipients will be announced later this spring, including support for veterans' workforce pathways and initiatives that expand access to history and civics education.Duke Energy Foundation
Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Media Contact: Gina DiPietro
24-hour: 800.559.3853



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Original: Ahead of Earth Day, Duke Energy Foundation announces first round of America250 grants to revitalize local parks and green spaces

Duke Energy outlines steps to reliably serve record customer demand resulting from extreme winter weatherApril 15, 2026 3:28 PM
PR Newswire (US)

Extreme cold in late January and early February required Duke Energy to purchase power from other utilities – to be reflected in customer rates beginning June 1 – reinforcing need for new generation in the CarolinasCHARLOTTE, N.C., April 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy has filed requests with the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) related to fuel and purchased power costs incurred during one of the most extreme winter periods in the past decade – costs driven by record customer energy demand resulting from the cold weather and the utility's commitment to keep power available and reliable when it is needed most.







Why it mattersExtreme cold across North Carolina in late January and early February pushed electricity demand beyond what existing power plants and storage resources alone could supply.To ensure homes and businesses stayed warm and powered during prolonged freezing conditions, Duke Energy purchased additional electricity from neighboring utilities at elevated market prices.These actions underscore the importance of continued investment in reliable, around-the-clock generation and grid infrastructure as customer demand continues to grow.Meeting record demand during extreme conditionsDuring sustained subfreezing temperatures – 10 to 20 degrees below normal – customer energy use surged across the Carolinas. On Jan. 27, energy demand reached a new winter peak of 37,308 megawatt-hours, the highest on record across Duke Energy's Carolinas system."When customers need power the most – during extreme cold or heat – reliability is not optional," said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy's North Carolina president. "Our responsibility is to deliver electricity safely and reliably, even when demand exceeds what our system can supply on its own."To meet that obligation, Duke Energy relied on regional energy utilities to supplement its own generation, ensuring continuous service during prolonged cold weather.Supporting reliability for a growing stateNorth Carolina's strong economic and population growth is driving sustained increases in electricity demand year-round – not only during extreme weather.Duke Energy has added approximately 150,000 customers in North Carolina over the past two years, primarily residential and small business customers.In 2025 alone, companies announced projects bringing more than 35,000 jobs and $24 billion in investment statewide, much of it tied to energy-intensive manufacturing.To serve future growth and minimize our reliance upon purchased power from other utilities, Duke Energy plans to add 19,600 megawatts of diverse new generation capacity over the next decade, including new power plants in Person County, N.C., and Anderson County, S.C., along with grid upgrades and energy storage."Energy conservation helps manage costs, but long-term reliability requires new infrastructure," Bowman said. "Meeting customer demand – today and in the future – means investing in a system that can perform under the most extreme conditions."Recovering extraordinary fuel and power costsThe filings request recovery of fuel and purchased power costs, including solar purchases, incurred during the winter period – approximately $500 million for Duke Energy Carolinas and $309 million for Duke Energy Progress. These pass-through costs represent the actual expenses, without markup, necessary to supply power.To lower the immediate impact on customers, Duke Energy is proposing to spread recovery over 19 months, rather than the typical 12-month period.If approved:Typical Duke Energy Carolinas residential customers using 1,000 kWh per month would see an increase of about $6.90 per month starting June 1.Typical Duke Energy Progress residential customers using 1,000 kWh per month would see an increase of about $7.88 per month starting June 1.Helping customers manage energy costsDuke Energy recognizes the financial pressures customers face and offers a range of resources to help manage energy use and bills, including:Energy efficiency programsBudget billing and payment plansFinancial assistance and agency partnershipsMore information is available at duke-energy.com/help and duke-energy.com/BillHelp.Duke Energy Carolinas serves about 2.3 million households and businesses in central and western North Carolina, including Charlotte, Durham and the Triad, while Duke Energy Progress serves about 1.6 million customers in central and eastern North Carolina and in the Asheville region.Duke Energy Carolinas Duke Energy Carolinas, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 20,800 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 3 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 24,000-square-mile service area in North Carolina and South Carolina.  Duke Energy Progress Duke Energy Progress, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 13,800 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 1.8 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 28,000-square-mile service area in North Carolina and South Carolina.Duke EnergyDuke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Bill Norton
24-hour media line: 800.559.3853



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Original: Duke Energy outlines steps to reliably serve record customer demand resulting from extreme winter weather

Duke Energy honors lineworkers who help strengthen grid, restore powerApril 15, 2026 10:44 AM
PR Newswire (US)

National Lineworker Appreciation Day on April 18 honors the men and women committed to safety, service and the communities they serveLineworkers strengthen the system year-round to improve reliability and support faster outage restoration when severe weather hitsCHARLOTTE, N.C., April 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- On April 18, Duke Energy recognizes National Lineworker Appreciation Day and the lineworkers who keep the lights on. From year-round grid work that improves reliability to storm response, lineworkers bring skill, teamwork and a strong safety focus to the work customers depend on.







"Customers trust us to deliver safe, reliable power every day—and to bring it back quickly after storms and other outages," said Scott Batson, executive vice president and chief power grid officer for Duke Energy. "That's why the work of our lineworkers' matters: they strengthen the system through daily maintenance and upgrades, and they respond in our communities when it matters most. Their skill and safety-first mindset help us provide the dependable service our communities expect today while building a stronger grid for the future."What you need to know: Lineworkers build, maintain and upgrade the equipment that powers homes and businesses, and they respond when outages occur. Reliability work—replacing aging equipment and adding technology to detect and isolate issues—can help reduce outages and speed restoration. During storms and extreme weather, they coordinate with emergency responders as conditions allow, with safety guiding every job.Go deeper: Lineworkers — including line, substation and relay technicians — are the hands-on workforce behind Duke Energy's electric grid. They install, maintain and upgrade poles, transformers and power lines to strengthen a more resilient, modern system that can meet evolving customer needs and growing energy demand. Many also live where they work — neighbors helping neighbors stay connected and supported.What they're saying:Tyler Hobbs, journeyman lineworker, Duke Energy (North Carolina)
"I take pride in being a lineman in my hometown. When storms hit and power is out, I'm not just restoring power. I'm helping my family, friends, and neighbors. It is a feeling of great satisfaction knowing that I'm supporting the same people who supported me growing up. Being able to serve the community I have lived in my whole life is what makes this job more than just a career."By the numbers: Duke Energy employs approximately 3,600 lineworkers across its six-state service area, supported by additional contract crews—more than 10,000 professionals working together to keep service reliable.The bottom line: Lineworkers strengthen a more resilient system customers can rely on. The next time you flip a switch, charge your phone or power your business, take a moment to thank a lineworker and share your appreciation with #ThankALineworker.Lineworker b-roll and photography:  Lineworkers brighten our communities Multimedia Gallery | Duke Energy | News Center (duke-energy.com) – photo downloads > Transmission/Distribution
Additional media available upon requestDuke Energy Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities. Media Contact: Logan Stewart
24-hour: 800.559.3853



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Original: Duke Energy honors lineworkers who help strengthen grid, restore power

Duke Energy invests $600,000 to train North Carolina's future energy workforceApril 14, 2026 10:48 AM
PR Newswire (US)

$500,000 awarded to 20 community colleges; additional $100,000 will support AdvanceNC and the Forward Fund Duke Energy Foundation has provided over $6 million in funding over past five years to support workforce programs critical to the energy industry and local communitiesCHARLOTTE, N.C., April 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Duke Energy Foundation is investing $600,000 to strengthen North Carolina's energy workforce, including $500,000 for 20 North Carolina community colleges and $100,000 for two regional partners expanding access to high-demand training programs aligned with the energy sector.







Why it matters: Community colleges and regional workforce partners are critical to connecting local talent with rapidly growing workforce needs.Enrollment in North Carolina's community college system grew four times the national average between 2024 and 2025.Duke Energy has proposed nearly $10 billion in grid investments in North Carolina between 2027 and 2028 to upgrade poles and wires, add smart technology and more to improve reliability, with significantly more infrastructure investments planned over the coming decade.Zoom in: Schools will receive $25,000 each to support hands-on training, equipment, scholarships and curriculum enhancements for programs connected to the energy ecosystem – from electrical systems and linework to welding, HVAC, advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies.In addition, the Duke Energy Foundation is investing $100,000 in two regional workforce partners to help scale training pipelines and remove financial barriers for students entering energy-related careers:The Forward Fund (TFF) ($50,000): Builds on previous Foundation support to expand TFF's zero-interest loan program for students in skilled trades to cover essential life expenses like transportation and childcare. This year's funding will help pilot support for pipefitting programs at Alamance Community College and Piedmont Community College, helping students cover critical education and certification costs and accelerating entry into high-demand careers.AdvanceNC ($50,000): A regional partnership among community colleges, universities and workforce boards focused on supplying skilled talent for Central North Carolina employers. This investment will fund a dedicated full-time role to operationalize the program and strengthen connections between education, training and advanced manufacturing employers.The bigger picture: North Carolina is now home to more than 11 million residents and remains one of the fastest-growing states in the nation. In 2025 alone, companies announced economic development projects generating more than 35,000 jobs and $24 billion in investments – much of it tied to new manufacturing facilities. That growth is driving rising energy demand and reinforcing the need for a well-prepared, locally trained workforce.What they're sayingKendal Bowman, Duke Energy's North Carolina president: "Investing in North Carolina's community colleges is critical as our industry and state meet this incredible growth moment. These programs are proven launchpads into meaningful, in-demand careers – helping build the workforce that will power what's next and support the infrastructure our customers rely on every day."Dr. Kevin Lee, Piedmont Community College President: "We are grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for this investment in Piedmont Community College and the communities we serve. This grant will allow us to launch a short-term pipefitting program that will quickly prepare students for high-demand careers while directly supporting the workforce needs of our region. It's a powerful example of how partnerships can create immediate opportunity and long-term economic impact."Vanessa Shelton Sotlen, Central Piedmont Community College Associate Vice President: "We are deeply grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for this investment and long-term partnership that allows Central Piedmont to expand hands-on training in our lineworker program. This funding allows us to add critical, industry-specific equipment, which will reduce downtime, improve safety, and ensure our graduates are ready to meet CDL requirements and succeed in the utility workforce." Duke Energy Foundation
Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Contact: Madison McDonald
24-Hour: 800.559.3853



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Original: Duke Energy invests $600,000 to train North Carolina's future energy workforce

Duke Energy completes sale of its Tennessee Piedmont Natural Gas business to SpireMarch 31, 2026 4:30 PM
PR Newswire (US)

Close of transaction previously announced in July 2025Proceeds to help fund industry's largest regulated capital plan CHARLOTTE, N.C., March 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) today announced it has completed the sale of its Tennessee Piedmont Natural Gas business to Spire – one of the largest publicly traded natural gas companies in the country – for $2.48 billion. The agreement was previously announced on July 29, 2025.







Approximately $800 million of the proceeds will be used to pay down debt at Piedmont Natural Gas to maintain its capital structure. The remaining $1.5 billion proceeds, net of tax, will help efficiently fund the industry's largest regulated capital plan – $103 billion of investments over the next five years – to support a growing system and serve increasing load while keeping customer costs as low as possible."Today marks a significant milestone with the successful transition of our Tennessee natural gas business to Spire," said Harry Sideris, Duke Energy president and chief executive officer. "As we enter a period of record investment, this transaction helps efficiently fund our capital plan – a plan built on safely and reliably meeting our communities' growing energy needs while managing costs for our more than 10 million customers."Sideris added, "I want to thank our Tennessee natural gas teammates for their commitment to industry-leading customer service, safety and operational excellence, as well as the Nashville community for trusting us to serve its growing energy needs for more than 40 years. Spire will carry forward best-in-class service and continue delivering value for Tennessee employees, customers and communities." "We're pleased to welcome Piedmont customers and employees in Tennessee to Spire," said Scott Doyle, president and chief executive officer of Spire. "This acquisition allows us to expand our core utility business while continuing to do what we do best as a company – safely delivering reliable natural gas to the communities we serve."The sale agreement for the Piedmont Natural Gas Tennessee business included nearly 3,800 miles of distribution and transmission pipelines serving more than 200,000 customers. The primary operations will remain in the Greater Nashville area, and the Piedmont Natural Gas employees who primarily support the business have transitioned to Spire to maintain business continuity for its operations and customers.JP Morgan Securities LLC and RBC Capital Markets LLC served as Duke Energy's financial advisors. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP served as Duke Energy's transactional legal advisor. In addition, Duke Energy received legal support on certain matters from Holland & Knight. McGuireWoods acted as joint regulatory counsel for both Duke Energy and Spire.Duke EnergyDuke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.Piedmont Natural Gas Piedmont Natural Gas, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, distributes natural gas to more than 1 million residential, commercial, industrial and power generation customers in North Carolina and South Carolina. More information: piedmontng.com. Follow Piedmont Natural Gas: Facebook.SpireSpire Inc. (NYSE: SR) believes energy exists to help make people's lives better. It's a simple idea, but one that's at the heart of Spire's company. Every day Spire serves close to 2 million homes and businesses, making it one of the largest publicly traded natural gas companies in the country. Spire helps families and business owners fuel their daily lives through its gas utilities serving Alabama, Mississippi, Missouri and Tennessee. Its natural gas-related businesses include Spire Marketing and Spire Midstream. Spire is committed to transforming its business through growing organically, investing in infrastructure, and driving continuous improvement. Learn more at SpireEnergy.com.Forward-Looking InformationThis document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management's beliefs and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by terms and phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will," "potential," "forecast," "target," "outlook," "guidance," and similar expressions. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. These risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Duke Energy's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, and subsequent quarterly reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and available at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than Duke Energy has described. Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.Media Contact: Gillian Moore
24-hour: 800.559.3853Analyst Contact: Mike Switzer
Office: 704.382.6473



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-completes-sale-of-its-tennessee-piedmont-natural-gas-business-to-spire-302730500.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Duke Energy completes sale of its Tennessee Piedmont Natural Gas business to Spire

Spire completes acquisition of Tennessee Piedmont Natural Gas business from Duke EnergyMarch 31, 2026 4:30 PM
PR Newswire (US)

Expands regulated utility footprint with Spire Tennessee becoming the largest investor-owned natural gas utility in TennesseeCommitted to providing a seamless transition for customers, community and employeesMore than 200 of Piedmont's Tennessee employees will transition to Spire, with additional support roles being addedAcquisition supports Spire's long-term adjusted earnings per share growth of 5-7%ST. LOUIS, March 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Spire Inc. (NYSE: SR) today announced it has completed its acquisition of the Piedmont Natural Gas business in Tennessee from Duke Energy effective March 31, 2026, for $2.48 billion.







The operations will do business as Spire Tennessee and be integrated into Spire's existing utility business serving customers across Missouri, Alabama and Mississippi, significantly expanding Spire's regulated utility footprint. Spire Tennessee is the largest investor-owned natural gas utility in Tennessee, operating in the Nashville metro area and surrounding communities, one of the fastest-growing regions in the U.S. Spire Tennessee serves more than 200,000 customers and includes nearly 3,800 miles of distribution and transmission pipelines."We're pleased to welcome Piedmont customers and employees in Tennessee to Spire," said Scott Doyle, president and chief executive officer of Spire. "This acquisition allows us to expand our core utility business while continuing to do what we do best as a company – safely delivering reliable natural gas to the communities we serve."As previously announced, Spire Tennessee will represent approximately 20% of Spire's capital investment plan through the five-year period ending 2030, including investments to support customer growth, while supporting long-term adjusted earnings per share growth of 5-7%. The addition of the Piedmont Natural Gas business in Tennessee provides robust growth driven by new customer additions and system integrity investments, while aligning with Spire's investment strategy. Tennessee's constructive regulatory environment encourages capital investment to support its growing service territory."Today marks a significant milestone with the successful transition of our Tennessee natural gas business to Spire," said Harry Sideris, Duke Energy president and chief executive officer. "As we enter a period of record investment, this transaction helps efficiently fund our capital plan – a plan built on safely and reliably meeting our communities' growing energy needs while managing costs for our more than 10 million customers."Sideris added, "I want to thank our Tennessee natural gas teammates for their commitment to industry-leading customer service, safety and operational excellence, as well as the Nashville community for trusting us to serve its growing energy needs for more than 40 years. Spire will carry forward best-in-class service and continue delivering value for Tennessee employees, customers and communities."Joe Hampton, president of Spire Alabama, Gulf and Mississippi, will take on the added responsibility of leading the utility as president of Spire Tennessee. "At Spire, we've had the privilege of delivering great service to customers for more than 160 years. Our teams are closely collaborating to deliver a seamless transition and ensure that customers have the same great experience with Spire that they've enjoyed with Piedmont," said Hampton.The more than 200 employees in the region who worked for Piedmont are now employees of Spire Tennessee and continue their roles providing natural gas service to Nashville and surrounding communities. In addition, Spire is actively recruiting positions for Tennessee operations to support the business.Like Piedmont, Spire has a long history of supporting civic and charitable activities in the areas they serve and plans to bring its Spire Serves program to Tennessee. "We take pride in being part of the communities where we live and work, and we look forward to building new relationships throughout the Nashville region," said Hampton.BMO Capital Markets Corp. acted as exclusive financial advisor to Spire. Additional advisory support was provided by Newlin Capital Advisors. Sidley Austin LLP acted as lead legal counsel to Spire, with additional legal counsel provided by Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP. McGuireWoods acted as joint regulatory counsel for both Spire and Duke Energy.About SpireAt Spire Inc. (NYSE: SR) we believe energy exists to help make people's lives better. It's a simple idea, but one that's at the heart of our company. Every day we have the honor of serving close to 2 million homes and businesses, making us one of the largest publicly traded natural gas companies in the country. We help families and business owners fuel their daily lives through our gas utilities serving Alabama, Mississippi, Missouri and Tennessee. Our natural gas-related businesses include Spire Marketing and Spire Midstream. We are committed to transforming our business through growing organically, investing in infrastructure, and driving continuous improvement. Learn more at SpireEnergy.com.About Duke EnergyDuke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs. More information is available at?duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook?for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.About Piedmont Natural Gas  Piedmont Natural Gas, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, distributes natural gas to more than 1 million residential, commercial, industrial and power generation customers in North Carolina and South Carolina. More information:?piedmontng.com. Follow Piedmont Natural Gas:?X,?Facebook. Forward-Looking StatementsThis news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Spire's future operating results may be affected by various uncertainties and risk factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control, including weather conditions, economic factors, the competitive environment, governmental and regulatory policy and action, and risks associated with acquisitions. More complete descriptions and listings of these uncertainties and risk factors can be found in the Company's annual (Form 10-K) and quarterly (Form 10-Q) filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.This news release includes the non-GAAP financial measures of "adjusted earnings," "adjusted earnings per share," and "contribution margin." Management also uses these non-GAAP measures internally when evaluating the Company's performance and results of operations. Adjusted earnings exclude from net income, as applicable, the impacts of fair value accounting and timing adjustments associated with energy-related transactions, the impacts of acquisition, divestiture and restructuring activities and the largely non-cash impacts of impairments and other non-recurring or unusual items such as certain regulatory, legislative, or GAAP standard-setting actions. The fair value and timing adjustments, which primarily impact the Gas Marketing segment, include net unrealized gains and losses on energy-related derivatives resulting from the current changes in the fair value of financial and physical transactions prior to their completion and settlement, lower of cost or market inventory adjustments, and realized gains and losses on economic hedges prior to the sale of the physical commodity. Management believes that excluding these items provides a useful representation of the economic impact of actual settled transactions and overall results of ongoing operations. Contribution margin adjusts revenues to remove the costs that are directly passed on to customers and collected through revenues, which are the wholesale cost of natural gas and gross receipts taxes. These internal non-GAAP operating metrics should not be considered as an alternative to, or more meaningful than, GAAP measures such as operating income, net income, or earnings per share.Investor Contact:
Megan L. McPhail
314-309-6563
Megan.McPhail @Bree-3300
Jason.Merrill@SpireEnergy.com



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/spire-completes-acquisition-of-tennessee-piedmont-natural-gas-business-from-duke-energy-302730161.htmlSOURCE Spire Inc.

Original: Spire completes acquisition of Tennessee Piedmont Natural Gas business from Duke Energy

Regulators approve Duke Energy's proposal for new natural gas generation to support South Carolina's growing energy needsMarch 26, 2026 2:15 PM
PR Newswire (US)

The facility in Anderson County builds on decades of partnership and investment in the region; creates thousands of construction jobs and millions of dollars in annual property tax revenueThe state-of-the-art combined cycle plant is first to be approved after enactment of Energy Security Act and will be company's first new generation in the Palmetto State in a decadeConstruction is anticipated to begin in summer 2027 and the facility would serve customers by early 2031GREENVILLE, S.C., March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Public Service Commission of South Carolina (PSCSC) has approved plans by Duke Energy to construct new natural gas generation in Anderson County, a project that will help support the energy needs of a growing region while significantly contributing to the community's economic success in the years ahead.







The approval comes after a thorough and very public process that included a public hearing in Anderson before the PSCSC. In addition, Duke Energy invited members of the community to participate in two open house events where company experts shared details of the project, answered questions and collected feedback.Why it matters: South Carolina is one of the fastest growing states in the nation. As populations grow and businesses relocate to or expand in the state, new and diverse sources of energy are needed to power that growth. That's why state leaders enacted the Energy Security Act in 2025, to provide a comprehensive path forward for energy policy that will guide South Carolina's continued success for many years to come. Committing to building this modern energy facility in Anderson County is a critical piece of that strong energy future for the region.By the numbers:According to a survey by Ernst & Young, the project is expected to support more than 2,200 jobs annually during the multi-year construction period, with 746 construction jobs located in Anderson County. Once operational, the facility is projected to have an annual $84 million impact statewide, supporting 125 jobs and $10 million in annual labor income. The project will be one of the most efficient natural gas plants on Duke Energy's system and will include state-of-the-art environmental control technologies to minimize plant emissions. The facility will use 90% less water than traditional wet cooling technology, will not have a vapor plume, will eliminate the need to treat water chemically, and will have a longer life span than prior natural gas technology.Central Electric Power Cooperative and North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation will own 95 megawatts (MW) and 100 MW, respectively, of the combined cycle's approximate 1,365 MW nominal capacity.Construction is anticipated to begin in summer 2027 and the facility would serve customers by early 2031.More info: Additional details about the project can be found here.What they're sayingGov. Henry McMaster: "As South Carolina continues to attract new businesses and new residents at a record pace, the need for dependable energy has never been more urgent. Duke Energy has long been a strong partner in our state, and this project reflects the kind of forward-thinking planning that will ensure we meet those needs with reliable, efficient power for years to come."Speaker of the House Murrell Smith: "Today's approval of Duke Energy's new facility in Anderson County shows South Carolina is growing the right way. As one of the fastest-growing states, we need reliable, affordable American energy to support jobs, attract business, and help families thrive. This project will create thousands of construction jobs, generate millions in local tax revenue, and reflects the impact of the Energy Security Act in securing our future."Senate President Thomas Alexander: "Being competitive means South Carolina must have reliable, affordable energy ready when we need it. The Public Service Commission's approval of Duke Energy's combined-cycle gas plant is a major step forward, ensuring our state has the capacity to meet our needs, attract jobs, and stay competitive."Sen. Mike Gambrell and Rep. Craig Gagnon: "Duke Energy has been a valued partner in Anderson County for many years. This new facility will help meet our community's growing energy needs for decades, and this significant investment will deliver lasting benefits for our schools, our local economy, and our quality of life. We're proud of what this means for Anderson County and look forward to continuing our strong collaboration with the men and women of Duke Energy."Duke Energy South Carolina President Tim Pearson: "We appreciate the commission's recognition that the Anderson County combined cycle natural gas power plant is the right resource at the right time at the right site. Adding proven new natural gas technology to the electric grid acknowledges and responds to the efforts of state leaders to address tremendous electricity generation needs as part of a reliable and diverse energy mix that includes new and existing nuclear technology, renewables, battery storage, additional natural gas and energy efficiency programs."Duke Energy Carolinas Duke Energy Carolinas, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 20,800 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2.9 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 24,000-square-mile service area in North Carolina and South Carolina.Duke EnergyDuke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. More information is available at duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, and visit illumination for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition.Contact: Ryan Mosier
24-hour media line: 800.559.3853



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/regulators-approve-duke-energys-proposal-for-new-natural-gas-generation-to-support-south-carolinas-growing-energy-needs-302726577.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Regulators approve Duke Energy's proposal for new natural gas generation to support South Carolina's growing energy needs

Energy Bill Assistance Available for Qualified Duke Energy Florida CustomersMarch 25, 2026 1:23 PM
PR Newswire (US)

In 2025, nearly $30.5 million in energy bill assistance was provided in Florida, helping nearly 31,000 customersMultiple financial assistance programs are available for eligible customersST. PETERSBURG, Fla., March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As Duke Energy Florida's storm cost recovery charges have been removed from customer bills as of February, dropping residential bills approximately $44 for every 1,000 kWh, additional bill assistance resources are available for eligible customers that may face continued payment challenges.







In 2025, nearly $30.5 million was delivered to support approximately 31,000 customers.Duke Energy Florida works with community partners and assistance programs to connect eligible customers with financial resources and support, leveraging resources such as Share The Light Fund, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), FL211.org and more.How to get help
Duke Energy Florida works with a variety of partners to help connect eligible customers with financial assistance for their energy bills. These partnerships help ensure support reaches families who may be experiencing temporary financial hardship or unexpected challenges."We know that unexpected challenges can arise, and we're committed to standing by our customers when they need it most," said Melissa Seixas, president, Duke Energy Florida. "These programs help provide a safety net for families navigating temporary hardship while keeping their households running."To explore payment assistance resources including Share the Light Fund, 211.org, LIHEAP and more, customers can visit Duke Energy's Payment Assistance Finder.Additional support
In addition to financial assistance programs, Duke Energy also offers:Installment Plans: Provides flexibility with paying energy bills to help make monthly payments more comfortableDue Date Extensions: Extends your payment due date by one to 10 business daysSeasonal Savings Tips: From energy usage tracking to a live view into your energy dashboard, additional resources provide transparency and tips to help reduce everyday energy usage to lower your bill during the winter chill and heat of the summerCustomers are encouraged to seek help early to find the best option that fits their needs.Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,500 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida.  Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve?8.6 million customers?in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve?1.7 million customers?in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee,?Ohio?and Kentucky.??Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. More information is available at?duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, and visit illumination for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition. Contact: Laitin Sterling
24-Hour: 800.559.3853



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/energy-bill-assistance-available-for-qualified-duke-energy-florida-customers-302725174.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Energy Bill Assistance Available for Qualified Duke Energy Florida Customers

Monitor energy use with alerts - ahead of the summer heatMarch 20, 2026 10:42 AM
PR Newswire (US)

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., March 20, 2026  /PRNewswire/ -- As temperatures begin rising across the state, Duke Energy Florida encourages customers to explore its Usage Alerts program, a tool designed to help monitor energy use and better anticipate monthly bills before it arrives.







How Usage Alerts work: Customers with a smart meter and an email address on file are automatically enrolled to receive alerts that provide insights into their electricity use throughout the billing cycle.Mid-cycle alerts: Customers receive an email notification around the midpoint of their billing cycle showing how much electricity they have used so far and how that usage translates to current costs.The alert also includes a projected bill estimate if usage continues at the same rate through the end of the billing cycle.This information allows customers to stay informed and adjust during periods of increased electricity demand.Advanced notice to avoid bill surprises: By receiving this information before the billing cycle ends, customers have time to adjust their energy usage and potentially reduce costs before their bill arrives.Customers can make changes such as adjusting thermostat settings, reducing unnecessary electricity use or shifting certain activities to cooler times of the day.This helps customers plan ahead and avoid unexpected costs during the hottest months of the year.Helpful during warmer months: With air conditioning accounting for a large portion of residential electricity use in Florida, monitoring energy usage can be especially important as temperatures rise in the summer.Our view:"As Florida temperatures begin to climb, many customers see an increase in energy use," said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. "Supporting our customers with strong billing visibility and usage monitors to reduce monthly bills is a priority. Usage Alerts provide helpful insight during the billing cycle so customers can better understand their energy use and make adjustments before their bill arrives."Additional tools to help:Explore other rate options Enroll a qualifying smart thermostat for bill credits Track energy use on the website or the Duke Energy mobile appEnroll in Budget Billing for predictable monthly energy billsFlexible payment options:Installment plans Pick Your Due DateRequest a due date extension Customers enrolled in Budget Billing do not receive Usage Alerts. The Budget Billing program offers a predictable monthly energy bill, regardless of changes in energy usage or the weather.  Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,300 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.4 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 54,800 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. More information is available at?duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on?X,?LinkedIn,?Instagram?and?Facebook, and visit illumination?for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition. Contact: Laitin Sterling
24-Hour: 800.559.3853 



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/monitor-energy-use-with-alerts---ahead-of-the-summer-heat-302719898.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Monitor energy use with alerts - ahead of the summer heat

Duke Energy invests $500,000 to strengthen storm preparedness across North CarolinaMarch 19, 2026 12:22 PM
PR Newswire (US)

Funding will help communities better prepare for severe weather, natural disasters and emergency response challengesLocal nonprofit and government organizations can apply by April 30CHARLOTTE, N.C., March 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy Foundation is awarding $500,000 in grants to support local storm preparedness and emergency readiness initiatives across North Carolina.







What's new: Funding will help organizations bolster natural disaster readiness through:Community preparedness trainingEmergency planningLocal response collaborationPublic education initiatives designed to help residents prepare for severe weatherWhy it matters: North Carolina continues to face increasingly frequent and severe storms. These grants help ensure communities have the training, coordination and resources needed to prepare, respond and recover more effectively.The details: Eligible organizations can apply for grants of up to $25,000 now through April 30, 2026 via Duke Energy Foundation's website.$11.4 million invested to support the state's storm preparedness and recovery since 2016, reinforcing the company's ongoing commitment to community safety, resilience and disaster readiness by Duke Energy and its Foundation.What they're saying: Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy North Carolina state president: "Storm preparedness is really about people – making sure communities have what they need before disaster strikes. By supporting local partners who know their communities best, these grants help close critical gaps in readiness, improve coordination during severe weather and enable communities to recover faster."Don Mial, Wake County Board of Commissioners Chair (2025 grant recipient): "Emergency preparedness starts at the individual level. When all residents have access to the resources that will keep them safe during a crisis or natural disaster, our whole community becomes more resilient. We are incredibly grateful to our partners at the Duke Energy Foundation for supporting this important work by investing in equity and safety in Wake County."Duke Energy Foundation
Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. More information is available at duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center.Contact: Madison McDonald
24-Hour: 800.559.3853



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-invests-500-000-to-strengthen-storm-preparedness-across-north-carolina-302719011.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Duke Energy invests $500,000 to strengthen storm preparedness across North Carolina

Duke Energy partners with colleges to train next generation of lineworkersMarch 19, 2026 10:25 AM
PR Newswire (US)

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., March 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Through the Duke Energy Foundation, Duke Energy is awarding Lake-Sumter State College, Seminole State College of Florida, Valencia College, St. Petersburg College and South Florida State College each $50,000 to support their electrical lineworker training programs.







Why it mattersEach program provides students with industry-recognized training and skills that allow them to pursue entry-level positions at electric utilities.Depending on the program, training lasts between seven weeks and 18 months, helping jumpstart graduates' careers in linework.  These programs also create a steady talent pipeline for the industry.Between 2022 and 2025, Duke Energy hired more than 100 program graduates. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, electrical lineworker employment is projected to grow 7% from 2024 to 2034 – much faster than the average for all occupations.What they're sayingMelissa Seixas, State President, Duke Energy Florida: "Lineworkers are the heart of our communities, helping keep the power flowing for our family members, friends and neighbors every single day. I'm proud of Duke Energy's partnerships with such well-respected institutions and grateful for all they do to help introduce so many men and women to what I truly believe is one of the most celebrated and rewarding career paths."Dr. Laura Byrd, Executive Vice President of Operations, Lake-Sumter State College / Executive Director, Lake-Sumter State College Foundation: "Lake-Sumter State College is proud to partner with Duke Energy to expand opportunities for students pursuing high-demand, high-wage careers in our region. Scholarships for the lineworker program not only remove financial barriers but also open the door to a valuable career pathway, one that equips students with the skills, confidence, and purpose to serve their communities in a vital industry. Together, we're helping create lasting, rewarding careers that power Florida's future."Dr. Jennifer Keefe, Director of Grants Development & Management, Seminole State College of Florida: "The Foundation for Seminole State College of Florida is once again thrilled to partner with the Duke Energy Foundation in the continued development of our lineworker program, offered through Seminole State Commits. Funding for Project POWER (Preparing Outstanding Workforce Energy Reliability) is crucial to our ability to continue to train line workers to serve the needs of our community for years to come. Our partnership with Duke Energy is a testament to both of our commitments to making our community stronger and more prepared for the challenges of the future and we are grateful for Duke Energy's ongoing support."Kathleen Plinske, President, Valencia College: "Valencia College's collaboration with Duke Energy spans more than two decades. We are incredibly grateful for their long-standing support, and this grant demonstrates their continued commitment to our students, enabling them to pursue high-wage careers as powerline technicians."Belinthia Berry, Dean of Workforce Development, St. Petersburg College: "Our partnership with Duke Energy is a powerful investment in the future of our region, creating a pipeline of highly skilled, job-ready lineworkers. Together, we are transforming lives by connecting students to industry-aligned training and high-demand career opportunities."Emily W. Dabolt, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement, South Florida State College: "This collaboration with Duke Energy is a gamechanger for our electrical lineworker program at South Florida State College. Their investment in essential training equipment ensures our students gain real-world, hands-on experience with the same tools they'll use in their careers. Duke Energy's support directly translates to stronger workforce readiness and better employment outcomes for our students. This partnership exemplifies what's possible when industry leaders invest in the next generation of skilled professionals who will serve our community for years to come."Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,300 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 54,800 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. More information is available at?duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on?X,?LinkedIn,?Instagram?and?Facebook, and visit illumination?for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition. Contact: Aly Raschid
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
X: @DE_AlyRaschid



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-partners-with-colleges-to-train-next-generation-of-lineworkers-302718869.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Duke Energy partners with colleges to train next generation of lineworkers

Duke Energy helps customers in South Carolina advance sustainability goals through expanded clean energy initiativesMarch 18, 2026 1:41 PM
PR Newswire (US)

First South Carolina project under Duke Energy's updated Green Source Advantage program enters serviceRenewable Choice program enrollment exceeds targets as business demand for clean energy growsMARION, S.C., March 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy has placed the 10-megawatt (MW) Ebbie Solar project into service in Marion, S.C., marking the first project in the state to operate under its updated Green Source Advantage program. The milestone comes as Duke Energy's Renewable Choice program exceeded initial enrollment targets in 2025, reflecting strong demand from large commercial and industrial customers for flexible access to clean energy.







The background: Through the GSA program, large business customers can support new renewable energy projects on Duke Energy's grid. Customers receive renewable energy certificates (RECs) and bill credits for the clean energy the projects produce.  Go deeper: Located in Marion, S.C., the Ebbie Solar facility will provide customer-driven renewable energy for the Schaeffler Group, supporting the company's sustainability goals. Built with American-made panels and domestic steel, the 10-MW facility is expected to generate more than 23,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of clean electricity annually under a long-term agreement through the GSA program.The project was supported by Enel X Advisory Services in its advisory role to Schaeffler and was developed by Headwater Energy, which owns and will operate the facility.What they're saying:Joe Bailey, region facilities manager for Schaeffler:
"Partnering with Duke Energy and Headwater Energy on the solar project in South Carolina marks a milestone in our sustainability journey. By generating clean electricity that offsets approximately 25% of the combined energy consumption across our three Cheraw plants, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also reinforcing our commitment to clean energy."Heather Shirley Smith, Duke Energy's vice president of regulatory affairs and policy for South Carolina:
"Customer feedback has shaped how we design our clean energy offerings, giving businesses multiple, flexible ways to meet their energy and sustainability goals. By building scalable options that balance customer choice with system-wide benefits, we're helping bring new renewable generation onto the grid while delivering value for all customers."Zoom out: Duke Energy's Renewable Choice program – its newest clean energy offering for large business customers in South Carolina – has surpassed enrollment targets, underscoring strong demand for flexible, turnkey access to renewable energy. The voluntary program has subscribed 57 MW of new renewable capacity (42 MW in Duke Energy Carolinas territory and 15 MW in Duke Energy Progress territory), enabling eligible nonresidential customers with at least 1 MW of annual peak demand to match up to 100% of their electricity use while providing benefits to all retail customers through Clean Energy Environmental Attribute (CEEA) revenue.CEEAs are environmental attributes that bundle RECs plus the associated carbon emission reduction/carbon-free attribute tied to renewable energy generation (often tracked per 1 MWh of clean energy).Why it matters: Demand continues to grow from businesses seeking greater access to renewable energy. Duke Energy is responding by offering new and enhanced programs that help customers make progress toward their renewable energy and sustainability goals.Next steps: The Ebbie Solar project completed final commissioning and entered operational service on Feb. 3, 2026, and is now delivering renewable energy to the Duke Energy Progress South Carolina grid. Schaeffler will begin full participation in the Green Source Advantage program this month.Duke EnergyDuke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage.More information is available at duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, and visit illumination for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition.Contact: Ryan Mosier
24-Hour: 800.559.3853



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-helps-customers-in-south-carolina-advance-sustainability-goals-through-expanded-clean-energy-initiatives-302717788.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Duke Energy helps customers in South Carolina advance sustainability goals through expanded clean energy initiatives

Duke Energy Clean Energy Program Exceeds Enrollment Targets in North CarolinaMarch 17, 2026 2:05 PM
PR Newswire (US)

Cisco, United States Cold Storage Inc. and Daimler Truck North America among early participants to advance sustainability goalsCHARLOTTE, N.C., March 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Green Source Advantage Express (GSA Express), Duke Energy's newest clean energy program for large business customers in North Carolina, has surpassed initial enrollment targets, highlighting strong demand for flexible, streamlined access to renewable energy across the state.







The voluntary program allows nonresidential customers to subscribe to capacity from new renewable energy facilities on Duke Energy's grid, helping them match up to 100% of their annual electricity use without securing off-site generation on their own.The big picture: Duke Energy developed GSA Express as a more turnkey solution to the company's standard Green Source Advantage plan in response to customer feedback. The program also provides benefits to all Duke Energy retail customers through revenue generated from the sale of clean energy environmental attributes (CEEAs), regardless of whether they participate in the program.Cisco, United States Cold Storage Inc. and Daimler Truck North America are among the first customers to participate in GSA Express.By the numbers:North Carolina (GSA Express): 177.3 megawatts (MW) subscribed and allocated87.3 MW in Duke Energy Carolinas territory90 MW in Duke Energy Progress territoryTen percent of additional capacity each calendar year is reserved for new business customers and will be released to large business customers in the fourth quarter of 2026 if not subscribed.What they're saying:
Meghan Dewey, senior vice president of products, services and pricing solutions for Duke Energy:"The strong initial response to Green Source Advantage demonstrates how the program meets the real-world needs of organizations focused on sustainability. By listening to our customers and building on the success of earlier initiatives, we're proud to offer businesses and institutions a simpler, more flexible path to achieving their clean energy goals – empowering them to make meaningful progress toward a smarter energy future."Evan S. Brown, renewable energy program manager for Cisco:"Cisco is proud to build on its long-standing energy strategy in North Carolina by participating in Duke Energy's GSA Express program. The program enables access to locally sourced, scalable renewable power that supports our sustainability goals and long-term energy planning. It strengthens the reliability of our Research Triangle Park operations while contributing incremental capacity to the North Carolina energy grid – demonstrating how local partnerships can deliver practical energy solutions."Jeff Allen, chief operating officer for Daimler Truck North America:"Partnering with Duke Energy through the GSA Express program is an important step in advancing our sustainability goals and supporting the long-term energy needs of our operations. With a large manufacturing footprint in the area, this program gives us a reliable, scalable way to access clean energy directly from the grid – helping us reduce our emissions footprint while strengthening the resilience of our network. We're proud to be among the first participants and appreciate Duke Energy's commitment to making renewable energy more accessible for companies in North Carolina."Michael Lynch, senior vice president – sustainable engineering and automation for United States Cold Storage:"US Cold has set clear climate goals, including a commitment to source 100 percent renewable electricity by 2030 and science-based carbon reduction targets that have been independently validated. Programs like Duke Energy's GSA Express help us advance those commitments in a practical way, alongside investments we're already making onsite, such as the solar installation at our Lumberton facility. Together, these efforts reflect our long-term approach to building a more resilient, sustainable cold chain network."Threshold requirements: GSA Express is available to nonresidential customers who have an annual peak energy demand of at least 1 MW at a single location or a combined peak demand of at least 5 MW across multiple locations within the same Duke Energy service territory.Keeping emissions accurate: To support accurate emissions reporting, Duke Energy has also launched a new Environmental Attribute Tracking tool in partnership with Cleartrace, providing customers with verified tracking of clean energy attributes and associated carbon reductions.Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage.More information is available at duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, and visit illumination for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition.Contact: Logan Stewart
24-Hour: 800.559.3853



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-clean-energy-program-exceeds-enrollment-targets-in-north-carolina-302716354.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Duke Energy Clean Energy Program Exceeds Enrollment Targets in North Carolina

Duke Energy urges customers to prepare for damaging high winds and possible tornadic activities across the CarolinasMarch 15, 2026 1:54 PM
PR Newswire (US)

CHARLOTTE, N.C., March 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy is bracing for damaging high winds and possible tornadic activity throughout Monday, increasing the likelihood of downed trees and power lines.







Our view
Rick Canavan, Duke Energy storm director:"Strong wind gusts can bring down trees and power lines and cause outages, and our line and tree crews will work as quickly and safely as possible to restore service as outages occur.""We're closely monitoring weather conditions, and we encourage customers to prepare now, stay weather-aware, and always avoid downed power lines."What customers should do nowMake a plan and prepare an emergency kit: Charge phones, gather flashlights and extra batteries, and review other critical actions.Download or update the Duke Energy app: Available on the Apple Store and Google Play.Confirm Duke Energy account login info: Log in via My Account or mobile app to review and update contact info and communications preferences.Sign up for outage alerts: Receive outage information and restoration updates by text, phone or email.Know how to report an outage: Submit reports online, via mobile app, by texting OUT to 57801 or calling 800.POWERON (800.769.3766).What customers should expectSafety first: Stay away from downed power lines and storm debris, and use generators safely.Grid improvements help speed restoration: Duke Energy has upgraded poles and wires, placed outage-prone lines underground and added smart, self-healing technology that can reroute power automatically – helping reduce outages and speed restoration.Outages still possible: Severe weather can still cause extended outages, even with these improvements in place.Restoration takes time: Crews will begin assessing damage and restoring power as soon as it's safe. In some areas, blocked roads, hidden damage or hazardous travel may delay restoration.Crew safety: For safety, crews cannot perform elevated work in bucket trucks when winds reach 30 mph or higher, which may slow restoration in some areas.More informationX: @DukeEnergy, @DukeEnergyNC and @DukeEnergySCFacebook: facebook.com/DukeEnergyInstagram: instagram.com/Duke_EnergyCurrent outages: duke-energy.com/OutageMapStorm tips: duke-energy.com/StormTipsDuke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage.More information is available at?duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on?X,?LinkedIn,?Instagram?and?Facebook, and visit illumination?for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition.24-Hour: 800.559.3853



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-urges-customers-to-prepare-for-damaging-high-winds-and-possible-tornadic-activities-across-the-carolinas-302714092.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Duke Energy urges customers to prepare for damaging high winds and possible tornadic activities across the Carolinas

Duke Energy Foundation offers $500,000 to strengthen emergency preparedness across South CarolinaMarch 11, 2026 11:00 AM
PR Newswire (US)

HERO grant program will pay for training, equipment and resources that strengthen readiness, response and resilience to severe weather.Now in its fifth year, the program helps first responders fill critical gaps and better protect the communities they serve. GREENVILLE, S.C., March 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy Foundation is investing $500,000 in South Carolina communities through its Helping Emergency Response Organizations (HERO) grant program to support weather-related emergency preparedness and response across the Palmetto State.







Why it matters: Earlier this year, South Carolina experienced severe weather across the state, including in communities that were hard-hit by Hurricane Helene. As extreme weather grows in intensity, first responders constantly work to find ways to increase their resiliency and prepare for future major weather events. Duke Energy Foundation micro grants help local government and nonprofits fill the gap when storms create overlapping emergencies.  How it works: Beginning March 19, South Carolina government agencies and qualified nonprofits can apply for grants up to $20,000 to fund training, equipment and materials to increase resiliency to major weather events and recovery operations. Applications close April 25.Funding is available to support community storm preparedness training, materials, kits or shelters, specialized training for first responders and equipment necessary for severe weather rescues and scenarios.Learn more and apply at duke-energy.com/SCHEROgrants.By the numbersThis is the fifth year of the $500,000 microgrant program – bringing total support to $2.5 million.Since 2022, Duke Energy's HERO grants have funded 137 microgrants in South Carolina. Read more about the impact of these investments.What they're sayingTim Pearson, Duke Energy's South Carolina president: "When severe weather impacts communities across our state, we work alongside first responders and understand the challenges they face to restore life back to normal. This year's HERO grants continue to help fill gaps in storm response identified by severe weather events and help provide additional tools and training to our fellow first responders."Joshua Hawkins, Director, Anderson County Emergency Management: "Thanks to the Duke Energy HERO Grant, we were able to deploy a traffic trailer with 300 cones to our local volunteer fire departments during the recent winter storms. This may have been a simple purchase, but it makes a big impact countywide. We truly appreciate Dukes partnership with all responders."Richard Pring, Director of Public Works, City of Sumter: "The Salt Dogg spreader we purchased this year through the grant provided by Duke Energy significantly enhanced our ability to respond to the winter weather events we experienced in February. Thanks to the addition of this new spreader, we were able to double our treatment capacity and effectively manage more than three inches of snowfall across the city."V. Aaron Smith, Coordinator, Oconee County Emergency Services: "The investment that Duke Energy continues to place in emergency preparedness and response is essential to bolstering our local capabilities and we are grateful for the partnership! The ability to have a second shelter trailer has been an invaluable addition. During our recent winter weather, we were able to open two simultaneous shelters with 25-person capacity, one also able to accommodate special medical needs."Duke Energy Foundation
Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage.More information is available at duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, and visit illumination for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition.Contact: Catherine Ramirez
24-Hour: 800.559.3853



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-foundation-offers-500-000-to-strengthen-emergency-preparedness-across-south-carolina-302711143.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Duke Energy Foundation offers $500,000 to strengthen emergency preparedness across South Carolina

Duke Energy reaches agreement with South Carolina customer groups and others on proposed combination of Duke Energy Carolinas, Duke Energy ProgressMarch 10, 2026 1:30 PM
PR Newswire (US)

Settlement guarantees hundreds of millions of dollars of savings to Duke Energy customersGREENVILLE, S.C., March 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy and a variety of organizations have reached a settlement agreement in South Carolina on the proposed combination of Duke Energy Carolinas and Duke Energy Progress designed to provide measurable, trackable benefits for customers.







Details of the settlement can be found here.Our view: "Ensuring a win-win for our customers was a priority for Duke Energy and everyone involved in achieving this constructive settlement," said Tim Pearson, Duke Energy's South Carolina president. "We're grateful to the parties that recognize that this transaction, if approved under the settlement terms, would be in the best interest of our customers. It reduces customer costs, simplifies operations, promotes regulatory efficiencies and supports economic growth across the Carolinas."Why it matters: Combining Duke Energy Carolinas and Duke Energy Progress will enable Duke Energy to meet the Carolinas' growing energy needs at a lower cost than would otherwise occur, with estimated savings of billions in projected future costs shared by customers across both states.As part of the settlement, Duke Energy has guaranteed hundreds of millions of dollars of future savings to customers – savings that can only be achieved through the combination. These savings include both lower production costs (through more efficient operation) and lower capital costs (through more efficient planning).Examples of production cost savings include the ability to use less fuel and the ability to avoid or reduce purchases of out-of-state energy. An example of lower capital costs includes the elimination of 200 megawatts of battery storage from Duke Energy's long-range plan while still maintaining reliability. The guaranteed savings will be assessed over a 14-year period.  More savings are expected over time as the company's long-range plan evolves. A new analysis of the potential cost savings was filed in October based on updated modeling supporting the 2025 South Carolina IRP Update – that analysis projected customer savings of approximately $2.3 billion from 2027 to 2040, after any expenses, with additional savings expected in the 2040s and beyond.Per the agreement, if the combination is approved, Duke Energy will track and annually report to state regulators the customer savings achieved until the transaction has fully covered its costs.What's next: The Public Service Commission of South Carolina and North Carolina Utilities Commission must still approve the combination, which was approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission on Jan. 30. Independent orders from state regulators are expected in the second quarter of 2026. If approved, the targeted effective date of the combination is Jan. 1, 2027.Duke Energy Carolinas Duke Energy Carolinas, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 20,800 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2.9 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 24,000-square-mile service area in North Carolina and South Carolina.  Duke Energy Progress Duke Energy Progress, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 13,800 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 1.8 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 28,000-square-mile service area in North Carolina and South Carolina. Duke EnergyDuke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. More information is available at?duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, and visit illumination?for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition.Contact: Ryan Mosier
24-hour media line: 800.559.3853



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-reaches-agreement-with-south-carolina-customer-groups-and-others-on-proposed-combination-of-duke-energy-carolinas-duke-energy-progress-302709827.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Duke Energy reaches agreement with South Carolina customer groups and others on proposed combination of Duke Energy Carolinas, Duke Energy Progress

Duke Energy reaches agreements with North Carolina customer advocates, NC Attorney General's office and others on proposed combination of Duke Energy Carolinas, Duke Energy ProgressMarch 10, 2026 1:30 PM
PR Newswire (US)

Settlement guarantees hundreds of millions of dollars of savings to Duke Energy customersCHARLOTTE, N.C., March 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy and a variety of organizations have reached settlement agreements on the proposed combination of Duke Energy Carolinas and Duke Energy Progress designed to provide measurable, trackable benefits for customers.







Settling parties include the North Carolina Public Staff – the independent agency representing utility customers – the North Carolina Attorney General's Office, Google, Nucor, Walmart and a variety of other intervening groups.Our view: "We're pleased that Public Staff and the Attorney General's Office agree our customers will see significant future cost savings and other meaningful benefits from combining our two utilities," said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy's North Carolina president. "It reduces customer costs, simplifies operations, promotes regulatory efficiencies and supports economic growth across the Carolinas."Why it matters: Combining Duke Energy Carolinas and Duke Energy Progress will enable Duke Energy to meet the Carolinas' growing energy needs at a lower cost than would otherwise occur, with estimated savings of billions in projected future costs shared by customers across North Carolina and South Carolina.As part of the settlement, Duke Energy has guaranteed hundreds of millions of dollars of future savings to customers – savings that can only be achieved through the combination. These savings include both lower production costs (through more efficient operation) and lower capital costs (through more efficient planning).Examples of production cost savings include the ability to use less fuel and the ability to avoid or reduce purchases of out-of-state energy. An example of lower capital costs includes the elimination of 200 megawatts of battery storage from Duke Energy's long-range plan while still maintaining reliability. The guaranteed savings will be assessed over a 14-year period.More savings are expected over time as the company's long-range plan evolves. A new analysis of the potential cost savings was filed in October based on updated modeling in the 2025 Carolinas Resource Plan – that analysis projected customer savings of approximately $2.3 billion from 2027 to 2040, after any expenses, with additional savings expected in the 2040s.Per the agreement, if the combination is approved, Duke Energy will track and annually report to state regulators the customer savings achieved until the transaction has fully covered its costs.Others joining the settlement in North Carolina are:North Carolina Housing CoalitionNorth Carolina Justice CenterNorth Carolina Sustainable Energy AssociationSouthern Alliance for Clean EnergyVote SolarWhat's next: The North Carolina Utilities Commission and the Public Service Commission of South Carolina must still approve the combination, which was approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission on Jan. 30. Independent orders from state regulators are expected in the second quarter of 2026. If approved, the targeted effective date of the combination is Jan. 1, 2027.Duke Energy Carolinas Duke Energy Carolinas, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 20,800 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2.9 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 24,000-square-mile service area in North Carolina and South Carolina.  Duke Energy Progress Duke Energy Progress, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 13,800 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 1.8 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 28,000-square-mile service area in North Carolina and South Carolina. Duke EnergyDuke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. More information is available at?duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on?X,?LinkedIn,?Instagram?and?Facebook, and visit illumination?for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition.Contact: Bill Norton
24-hour media line: 800.559.3853



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-reaches-agreements-with-north-carolina-customer-advocates-nc-attorney-generals-office-and-others-on-proposed-combination-of-duke-energy-carolinas-duke-energy-progress-302709824.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Duke Energy reaches agreements with North Carolina customer advocates, NC Attorney General's office and others on proposed combination of Duke Energy Carolinas, Duke Energy Progress

Duke Energy prices upsized offering of $1.3 billion of 3.000% convertible senior notes due 2029March 10, 2026 6:30 AM
PR Newswire (US)

CHARLOTTE, N.C., March 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE: DUK) announced the pricing of its offering of $1.3 billion aggregate principal amount of its 3.000% convertible senior notes due 2029 in a private placement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). The size of the offering was increased from the previously announced $1 billion aggregate principal amount of convertible notes. Duke Energy also granted to the initial purchasers of the convertible notes an option to purchase up to an additional $200 million aggregate principal amount of the convertible notes for settlement within a 13-day period beginning on, and including, the date on which the convertible notes are first issued. The sale of the convertible notes is expected to close on March 12, 2026, subject to customary closing conditions.







Duke Energy expects that the net proceeds from the convertible notes will be approximately $1.29 billion (or $1.48 billion if the initial purchasers exercise their option to purchase additional convertible notes in full), after deducting the initial purchasers' discounts and commissions and offering expenses payable by Duke Energy. Duke Energy intends to use the net proceeds from the offering of the convertible notes to repay at maturity $1.725 billion aggregate principal amount of Duke Energy's outstanding 4.125% Convertible Senior Notes due April 15, 2026 (the "existing convertible notes"), including as applicable cash amounts due upon conversion thereof and for general corporate purposes.The convertible notes will be senior unsecured obligations of Duke Energy, and will mature on March 15, 2029, unless earlier converted or repurchased in accordance with their terms. The convertible notes will bear interest at a fixed rate of 3.000% per year, payable semiannually in arrears on March 15 and September 15 of each year, beginning on September 15, 2026.Prior to the close of business on the business day immediately preceding December 15, 2028, the convertible notes will be convertible at the option of the holders only under certain conditions.On or after December 15, 2028, until the close of business on the second scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date, holders of the convertible notes may convert all or any portion of their convertible notes at their option at any time at the conversion rate then in effect, irrespective of these conditions. Duke Energy will settle conversions of the convertible notes by paying cash up to the aggregate principal amount of the convertible notes to be converted and paying or delivering, as the case may be, cash, shares of its common stock, $0.001 par value per share, or a combination of cash and shares of its common stock, at its election, in respect of the remainder, if any, of its conversion obligation in excess of the aggregate principal amount of the convertible notes being converted.The conversion rate for the convertible notes will initially be 6.2277 shares of common stock per $1,000 principal amount of convertible notes (equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $160.57 per share of common stock). The initial conversion price of the convertible notes represents a premium of approximately 22.50% over the last reported sale price of Duke Energy's common stock on the New York Stock Exchange on March 9, 2026. The conversion rate and the corresponding conversion price will be subject to adjustment in some events but will not be adjusted for any accrued and unpaid interest. Duke Energy may not redeem the convertible notes prior to the maturity date.If Duke Energy undergoes a fundamental change (as defined in the indenture that will govern the convertible notes), subject to certain conditions, holders of the convertible notes may require Duke Energy to repurchase for cash all or any portion of their convertible notes at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the convertible notes to be repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the fundamental change repurchase date (as defined in the indenture that will govern the convertible notes). In addition, if certain fundamental changes occur, Duke Energy may be required, in certain circumstances, to increase the conversion rate for any convertible notes converted in connection with such fundamental changes by a specified number of shares of its common stock.The final observation period applicable to the existing convertible notes commenced on March 9, 2026. Duke Energy understands that many holders of the existing convertible notes employ a convertible arbitrage strategy with respect to the existing convertible notes and have short positions with respect to Duke Energy's common stock that they may close, through purchases of Duke Energy's common stock and/or by entry into or unwinding of economically equivalent derivatives transactions with respect to Duke Energy's common stock, in connection with the maturity of the existing convertible notes and any associated conversions. This activity could increase (or reduce the size of any decrease in) the market price of Duke Energy's common stock on each trading day of that observation period and could therefore have the effect of increasing the effective conversion price for the convertible notes.The offering is being made to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act. Any offers of the convertible notes will be made only by means of a private offering memorandum. None of the convertible notes or any shares of the common stock issuable upon conversion of the convertible notes have been or are expected to be registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws and, unless so registered, may not be offered or sold in the United States or to U.S. persons except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws.This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor will there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.Duke EnergyDuke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.8 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky.Forward-Looking InformationThis news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  Forward-looking statements are based on management's beliefs and assumptions and can often be identified by terms and phrases that include "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will," "potential," "forecast," "target," "guidance," "outlook," or other similar terminology. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. These factors include, but are not limited to: the ability to implement Duke Energy's business strategy, including meeting forecasted load growth demand, grid and fleet modernization objectives, and reducing carbon emissions, while balancing customer reliability and keeping costs as low as possible for Duke Energy's customers; state, federal and foreign legislative and regulatory initiatives, including costs of compliance with existing and future environmental requirements and/or uncertainty of applicability or changes to such legislative and regulatory initiatives, including those related to climate change, as well as rulings that affect cost and investment recovery or have an impact on rate structures or market prices; the extent and timing of costs and liabilities to comply with federal and state laws, regulations and legal requirements related to coal ash remediation, including amounts for required closure of certain ash impoundments, are uncertain and difficult to estimate; the ability to timely recover eligible costs, including amounts associated with coal ash impoundment retirement obligations, asset retirement and construction costs related to carbon emissions reductions, and costs related to significant weather events, and to earn an adequate return on investment through rate case proceedings and the regulatory process; the costs of decommissioning nuclear facilities could prove to be more extensive than amounts estimated and all costs may not be fully recoverable through the regulatory process; the impact of extraordinary external events, such as a global pandemic, trade wars or military conflict, and their collateral consequences, including the disruption of global supply chains or the economic activity in Duke Energy's service territories; costs and effects of legal and administrative proceedings, settlements, investigations and claims; industrial, commercial and residential decline in service territories or customer bases resulting from sustained downturns of the economy, storm damage, reduced customer usage due to cost pressures from inflation, tariffs, or fuel costs, worsening economic health of Duke Energy's service territories, reductions in customer usage patterns, or lower than anticipated load growth, particularly if usage of electricity by data centers is less than currently projected, energy efficiency efforts, natural gas building and appliance electrification, and use of alternative energy sources, such as self-generation and distributed generation technologies; federal and state regulations, laws and other efforts designed to promote and expand the use of energy efficiency measures, natural gas electrification, and distributed generation technologies, such as private solar and battery storage, in Duke Energy service territories could result in a reduced number of customers, excess generation resources as well as stranded costs; advancements in technology, including AI; additional competition in electric and natural gas markets, municipalization and continued industry consolidation; the influence of weather and other natural phenomena on operations, financial position, and cash flows, including the economic, operational and other effects of severe storms, hurricanes, droughts, earthquakes and tornadoes, including extreme weather associated with climate change; changing or conflicting investor, customer and other stakeholder expectations and demands, particularly regarding environmental, social and governance matters and costs related thereto; the ability to successfully operate electric generating facilities and deliver electricity to customers including direct or indirect effects to the company resulting from an incident that affects the United States electric grid or generating resources; operational interruptions to Duke Energy's natural gas distribution and transmission activities; the availability of adequate interstate pipeline transportation capacity and natural gas supply; the impact on facilities and business from a terrorist or other attack, war, vandalism, cybersecurity threats, data security breaches, operational events, information technology failures or other catastrophic events, such as severe storms, fires, explosions, pandemic health events or other similar occurrences; the inherent risks associated with the operation of nuclear facilities, including environmental, health, safety, regulatory and financial risks, including the financial stability of third-party service providers; the timing and extent of changes in commodity prices, including any impact from increased tariffs, export controls and interest rates, and the ability to timely recover such costs through the regulatory process, where appropriate, and their impact on liquidity positions and the value of underlying assets; the results of financing efforts, including the ability to obtain financing on favorable terms, which can be affected by various factors, including credit ratings, interest rate fluctuations, compliance with debt covenants and conditions, an individual utility's generation portfolio, and general market and economic conditions; credit ratings of Duke Energy or its subsidiaries may be different from what is expected; declines in market prices of equity and fixed-income securities and resultant cash funding requirements for defined benefit pension plans, other post-retirement benefit plans and nuclear decommissioning trust funds; construction and development risks associated with the completion of Duke Energy or its subsidiaries' capital investment projects, including risks related to financing, timing and receipt of necessary regulatory approvals, obtaining and complying with terms of permits, meeting construction budgets and schedules, obtaining sufficient skilled labor and satisfying operating and environmental performance standards, as well as the ability to recover costs from customers in a timely manner, or at all; changes in rules for regional transmission organizations, including changes in rate designs and new and evolving capacity markets, and risks related to obligations created by the default of other participants; the ability to control operation and maintenance costs; the level of creditworthiness of counterparties to transactions; the ability to obtain adequate insurance at acceptable costs and recover on claims made; employee workforce factors, including the potential inability to attract and retain key personnel; the ability of Duke Energy's subsidiaries to pay dividends or distributions to Duke Energy; the performance of projects undertaken by Duke Energy's businesses and the success of efforts to invest in and develop new opportunities; the effect of accounting and reporting pronouncements issued periodically by accounting standard-setting bodies and the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"); the impact of United States tax legislation to Duke Energy's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows and Duke Energy's credit ratings; the impacts from potential impairments of goodwill or investment carrying values; asset or business acquisitions and dispositions may not be consummated or yield the anticipated benefits, which could adversely affect Duke Energy's financial condition, credit metrics or ability to execute strategic and capital plans; and the actions of activist shareholders could disrupt Duke Energy's operations, impact Duke Energy's ability to execute on Duke Energy's business strategy, or cause fluctuations in the trading price of Duke Energy's common stock.Additional risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Duke Energy's reports filed with the SEC and are available at the SEC's website. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements included or incorporated by reference in this news release might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than described. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made and Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.Media Contact: Gillian Moore
24-Hour: 800.559.3853Analysts Contact: Mike Switzer
Office: 704.382.6473 



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Original: Duke Energy prices upsized offering of $1.3 billion of 3.000% convertible senior notes due 2029

Duke Energy announces proposed offering of $1 billion of convertible senior notes due 2029March 9, 2026 6:58 AM
PR Newswire (US)

CHARLOTTE, N.C., March 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE: DUK) today announced that it intends to offer, subject to market and other conditions, $1 billion aggregate principal amount of convertible senior notes due 2029 (the "convertible notes") in a private placement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). Duke Energy also intends to grant each of the initial purchasers of the convertible notes an option to purchase up to an additional $150 million aggregate principal amount of the convertible notes for settlement within a 13-day period beginning on, and including, the date on which the convertible notes are first issued.







Duke Energy intends to use the net proceeds from the offering of the convertible notes to repay at maturity $1.725 billion aggregate principal amount of Duke Energy's outstanding 4.125% Convertible Senior Notes due April 15, 2026 (the "existing convertible notes"), including as applicable cash amounts due upon conversion thereof and for general corporate purposes.The convertible notes will be direct, unsecured and unsubordinated obligations of Duke Energy, and will be convertible at the option of the holders of such convertible notes upon satisfaction of certain conditions and during certain periods. Interest will be payable semiannually in arrears. Duke Energy will settle conversions of the convertible notes by paying cash up to the aggregate principal amount of the convertible notes to be converted and paying or delivering, as the case may be, cash, shares of its common stock, $0.001 par value per share, or a combination of cash and shares of its common stock, at its election, in respect of the remainder, if any, of its conversion obligation in excess of the aggregate principal amount of the convertible notes being converted.The final observation period applicable to the existing convertible notes will commence on March 9, 2026. Duke Energy understands that many holders of the existing convertible notes employ a convertible arbitrage strategy with respect to the existing convertible notes and have short positions with respect to Duke Energy's common stock that they may close, through purchases of Duke Energy's common stock and/or by entry into or unwinding of economically equivalent derivatives transactions with respect to Duke Energy's common stock, in connection with the maturity of the existing convertible notes and any associated conversions. This activity could increase (or reduce the size of any decrease in) the market price of Duke Energy's common stock on each trading day of that observation period and could therefore have the effect of increasing the effective conversion price for the convertible notes.The offering is being made to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act. Any offers of the convertible notes will be made only by means of a private offering memorandum. None of the convertible notes or any shares of the common stock issuable upon conversion of the convertible notes have been or are expected to be registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws and, unless so registered, may not be offered or sold in the United States or to U.S. persons except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws.This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor will there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.Duke EnergyDuke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.8 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky.Forward-Looking InformationThis news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are based on management's beliefs and assumptions and can often be identified by terms and phrases that include "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will," "potential," "forecast," "target," "guidance," "outlook," or other similar terminology. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward–looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. These factors include, but are not limited to: the ability to implement Duke Energy's business strategy, including meeting forecasted load growth demand, grid and fleet modernization objectives, and reducing carbon emissions, while balancing customer reliability and keeping costs as low as possible for Duke Energy's customers; state, federal and foreign legislative and regulatory initiatives, including costs of compliance with existing and future environmental requirements and/or uncertainty of applicability or changes to such legislative and regulatory initiatives, including those related to climate change, as well as rulings that affect cost and investment recovery or have an impact on rate structures or market prices; the extent and timing of costs and liabilities to comply with federal and state laws, regulations and legal requirements related to coal ash remediation, including amounts for required closure of certain ash impoundments, are uncertain and difficult to estimate; the ability to timely recover eligible costs, including amounts associated with coal ash impoundment retirement obligations, asset retirement and construction costs related to carbon emissions reductions, and costs related to significant weather events, and to earn an adequate return on investment through rate case proceedings and the regulatory process; the costs of decommissioning nuclear facilities could prove to be more extensive than amounts estimated and all costs may not be fully recoverable through the regulatory process; the impact of extraordinary external events, such as a global pandemic, trade wars or military conflict, and their collateral consequences, including the disruption of global supply chains or the economic activity in Duke Energy's service territories; costs and effects of legal and administrative proceedings, settlements, investigations and claims; industrial, commercial and residential decline in service territories or customer bases resulting from sustained downturns of the economy, storm damage, reduced customer usage due to cost pressures from inflation, tariffs, or fuel costs, worsening economic health of Duke Energy's service territories, reductions in customer usage patterns, or lower than anticipated load growth, particularly if usage of electricity by data centers is less than currently projected, energy efficiency efforts, natural gas building and appliance electrification, and use of alternative energy sources, such as self-generation and distributed generation technologies; federal and state regulations, laws and other efforts designed to promote and expand the use of energy efficiency measures, natural gas electrification, and distributed generation technologies, such as private solar and battery storage, in Duke Energy service territories could result in a reduced number of customers, excess generation resources as well as stranded costs; advancements in technology, including AI; additional competition in electric and natural gas markets, municipalization and continued industry consolidation; the influence of weather and other natural phenomena on operations, financial position, and cash flows, including the economic, operational and other effects of severe storms, hurricanes, droughts, earthquakes and tornadoes, including extreme weather associated with climate change; changing or conflicting investor, customer and other stakeholder expectations and demands, particularly regarding environmental, social and governance matters and costs related thereto; the ability to successfully operate electric generating facilities and deliver electricity to customers including direct or indirect effects to the company resulting from an incident that affects the United States electric grid or generating resources; operational interruptions to Duke Energy's natural gas distribution and transmission activities; the availability of adequate interstate pipeline transportation capacity and natural gas supply; the impact on facilities and business from a terrorist or other attack, war, vandalism, cybersecurity threats, data security breaches, operational events, information technology failures or other catastrophic events, such as severe storms, fires, explosions, pandemic health events or other similar occurrences; the inherent risks associated with the operation of nuclear facilities, including environmental, health, safety, regulatory and financial risks, including the financial stability of third-party service providers; the timing and extent of changes in commodity prices, including any impact from increased tariffs, export controls and interest rates, and the ability to timely recover such costs through the regulatory process, where appropriate, and their impact on liquidity positions and the value of underlying assets; the results of financing efforts, including the ability to obtain financing on favorable terms, which can be affected by various factors, including credit ratings, interest rate fluctuations, compliance with debt covenants and conditions, an individual utility's generation portfolio, and general market and economic conditions; credit ratings of Duke Energy or its subsidiaries may be different from what is expected; declines in market prices of equity and fixed-income securities and resultant cash funding requirements for defined benefit pension plans, other post-retirement benefit plans and nuclear decommissioning trust funds; construction and development risks associated with the completion of Duke Energy or its subsidiaries' capital investment projects, including risks related to financing, timing and receipt of necessary regulatory approvals, obtaining and complying with terms of permits, meeting construction budgets and schedules, obtaining sufficient skilled labor and satisfying operating and environmental performance standards, as well as the ability to recover costs from customers in a timely manner, or at all; changes in rules for regional transmission organizations, including changes in rate designs and new and evolving capacity markets, and risks related to obligations created by the default of other participants; the ability to control operation and maintenance costs; the level of creditworthiness of counterparties to transactions; the ability to obtain adequate insurance at acceptable costs and recover on claims made; employee workforce factors, including the potential inability to attract and retain key personnel; the ability of Duke Energy's subsidiaries to pay dividends or distributions to Duke Energy; the performance of projects undertaken by Duke Energy's businesses and the success of efforts to invest in and develop new opportunities; the effect of accounting and reporting pronouncements issued periodically by accounting standard-setting bodies and the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"); the impact of United States tax legislation to Duke Energy's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows and Duke Energy's credit ratings; the impacts from potential impairments of goodwill or investment carrying values; asset or business acquisitions and dispositions may not be consummated or yield the anticipated benefits, which could adversely affect Duke Energy's financial condition, credit metrics or ability to execute strategic and capital plans; and the actions of activist shareholders could disrupt Duke Energy's operations, impact Duke Energy's ability to execute on Duke Energy's business strategy, or cause fluctuations in the trading price of Duke Energy's common stock.Additional risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Duke Energy's reports filed with the SEC and are available at the SEC's website. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements included or incorporated by reference in this news release might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than described. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made and Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.Media Contact: Gillian Moore
24-Hour: 800.559.3853Analysts Contact: Mike Switzer
Office: 704.382.6473 



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Original: Duke Energy announces proposed offering of $1 billion of convertible senior notes due 2029

Understanding higher energy bills this winter - and how Duke Energy can helpMarch 6, 2026 11:25 AM
PR Newswire (US)

CHARLOTTE, N.C. , March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As customers see higher energy bills during the winter months, Duke Energy is addressing common misconceptions about what's driving costs higher and sharing ways customers can better manage energy use, payment options and available assistance.







What we are hearing: My bill went up because Duke Energy raised rates.Fact: Prolonged cold weather is a major driver of higher bills.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.While we saw a small increase in rates for both Duke Energy Carolinas and Duke Energy Progress, that increase only accounts for about $4 for a Duke Energy Carolinas customer using 1,000 kWh of electricity, and less than a dollar for a Duke Energy Progress customer using the same amount. The rate increase itself did not account for a significant increase in bills. Much higher usage was the main driver.This past winter ranked as one of the most extreme winters across Duke Energy service areas in the past 10 years, including more frequent and longer-lasting cold spells, colder overnight lows and higher heating demand than in the past decade.During that same time, snow and ice kept many families home, increasing energy usage from higher appliance use (cooking, washing dishes, etc.).What we are hearing: There's nothing I can do to prevent higher bills when cold weather strikes.Fact: Small actions and smart tools can help manage energy use and costs.Even during cold weather, customers can take steps that add up to meaningful savings. And when temperatures are very cold for multiple days in a row, these measures can lead to even more savings on their bill:Set thermostats to the lowest comfortable temperatureSeal air leaks with caulk or weatherstrippingOpen blinds during the day and close them at nightRun ceiling fans clockwise to push warm air downChange air filters regularly for better efficiencyDuke Energy also offers tools such as:Home Energy House Call, which includes an energy assessment with no out-of-pocket cost, customized report, efficiency kit and expert recommendationsFlex Savings Option (time-of-use), to help lower costs by shifting some energy use to off-peak hoursSmart thermostat programs, offering up to $150 in initial bill credits and $50 annually for qualifying devicesWhat we are hearing: I am behind on my bill. I can't pay it all and I don't have options.Fact: Flexible payment options are available to help make bills more manageable.Customers who need extra time or flexibility can explore:Budget Billing for more predictable monthly payments year-roundDue date extensions for short-term reliefPick Your Due Date to align bills with pay schedulesInstallment plans to spread past-due balances over timeWhat we are hearing: Help is limited if I'm struggling to pay my energy bill.Fact: Financial assistance and community resources are available now to qualifying households.In 2025, more than $95 million was provided in energy bill assistance to North Carolina customers, supporting nearly 110,800 households through programs such as:Share the Light Fund®, which helps eligible customers with energy billsFederal funds through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)Duke Energy recently participated in LIHEAP Action Day, meeting with congressional offices to support continued federal funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.Get connected to local organizations offering bill help through our Payment Assistance Finder or call 211 for additional community resources.Customers are encouraged to seek help early to find the option that best fits their needs.What we are hearing: My bill is much higher than last month.Fact: Compare bills year over year, not month to consecutive month.When looking at your energy bill, it helps to compare the same month from one year to the next. Bills can change from month to month, so comparing December to January, for example, may not give you a clear picture. Looking at this January alongside last January makes it easier to see what's really changed in your energy use and costs.Bottom line: 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. Customers can find tools and tips at duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings.Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. More information is available at?duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on?X,?LinkedIn,?Instagram?and?Facebook, and visit illumination?for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition.24-Hour: 800.559.3853  



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/understanding-higher-energy-bills-this-winter--and-how-duke-energy-can-help-302706895.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Understanding higher energy bills this winter - and how Duke Energy can help

Duke Energy Florida highlights record-low outage time for customers in 2025March 3, 2026 1:20 PM
PR Newswire (US)

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- In 2025, Duke Energy Florida achieved the lowest average outage duration per customer in more than two decades. At approximately 64 minutes, this record metric – which excludes outage time caused by significant events like named storms – can be attributed, largely, to year-round grid hardening efforts across the state.  







"Grid hardening" defined: Strategic infrastructure investments allow Duke Energy Florida to continue providing safe, reliable service for customers on "blue-sky" days and in extreme weather conditions, be it an afternoon thunderstorm or a hurricane.Preparation in action: All year long, Duke Energy Florida's engineers, arborists, construction workers and more collaborate on projects that will strengthen the system and make it more resilient.Pole upgrades: Wooden power poles are upgraded to better withstand high winds and are often replaced with concrete or steel.Approximately 60% of the company's transmission poles were upgraded over the last five years, with a completion target of 2028.Undergrounding: Where fallen tree limbs or branches cause repeated power outages, or where equipment is difficult to access (like in customers' backyards), overhead power lines are placed underground, better protecting them from the elements and making them easier to get to if outages do occur.Approximately 50% of the company's distribution system is underground.Smart, self-healing technology: Similar to a GPS, when this technology is implemented, outages are automatically detected and power is rerouted to other lines, allowing service to be restored faster (often in less than a minute) or even avoiding outages altogether.Approximately 82% of the company's more than 2 million customers are served by this technology.In 2025 alone, it helped avoid approximately 280,000 extended outages for customers.It also saved millions of hours of outages during the 2024 hurricane season:3.3 million hours during Hurricane Milton1.8 million hours during Hurricane Helene208,000 hours during Hurricane DebbyOur view:"Thankfully, Mother Nature spared us last year, but living in Florida, we know it's not a matter of 'if' but 'when' the next storm is coming," said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. "This work is designed to significantly improve reliability and help keep the lights on for our customers when they need it most."Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,300 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. Duke Energy 
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.4 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 54,800 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. More information is available at?duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on?X,?LinkedIn,?Instagram?and?Facebook, and visit illumination?for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition. Contact: Aly Raschid
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
X: @DE_AlyRaschid



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Original: Duke Energy Florida highlights record-low outage time for customers in 2025

Duke Energy Foundation commits $500,000 to support local environmental resilience programs across North CarolinaFebruary 23, 2026 10:40 AM
PR Newswire (US)

Up to 20 nonprofits will each receive a $25,000 grant – apply by March 13Funding will support projects aimed at enhancing and preserving the state's natural surroundingsCHARLOTTE, N.C., Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy Foundation is committing $500,000 to support local environmental resilience projects across North Carolina that conserve natural resources, restore habitats and expand access to outdoor spaces.







Why it matters: Healthy natural systems – including wetlands, forests and public spaces – play a critical role in helping the communities Duke Energy serves withstand extreme weather events and improve overall quality of life.What's happening: Eligible organizations can apply for $25,000 grants to support local initiatives that:Expand or improve access to parks, trails, and natural spacesRestore habitats, protect clean water and enhance biodiversityPromote conservation and outdoor engagementThe goal: Empower nonprofit organizations to lead practical, locally focused projects that strengthen communities and preserve North Carolina's natural beauty for future generations.What they're saying: Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy North Carolina state president: "Local partners understand what their communities need. By supporting their conservation efforts, we're helping enhance the natural spaces that make North Carolina communities stronger and more vibrant."Kyle Prairie, CEO/Executive Director, Keep North Carolina Beautiful (2025 grant recipient): "Thanks to Duke Energy's commitment, we're not only providing the tools and resources needed to tackle litter and recycling – we're also empowering thousands of volunteers to help create a cleaner, more beautiful North Carolina for everyone."What's next: Applications are open through March 13, 2026 – more information is available on the Duke Energy Foundation website.Duke Energy Foundation
Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.  Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. More information is available at duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center.Contact: Madison McDonald
24-Hour: 800.559.3853



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Original: Duke Energy Foundation commits $500,000 to support local environmental resilience programs across North Carolina

Duke Energy nuclear fleet sets new all-time reliability record, delivers value for customersFebruary 20, 2026 7:57 AM
PR Newswire (US)

Record capacity factor of 96.9% reached in 2025, marking new record for plant reliabilityNuclear plants delivered approximately $600 million in savings for customers through federal nuclear production tax creditsCHARLOTTE, N.C., Feb. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy's nuclear fleet set a new reliability record in 2025, providing communities across the Carolinas with around-the-clock power customers can count on. Steady, predictable output from nuclear units strengthens grid reliability and helps manage system costs, directly supporting growing energy needs.







By the numbers:Duke Energy's nuclear plants were generating power a combined 96.9% of the time in 2025, a new record for systemwide capacity factor.The fleet's strong performance resulted in approximately $600 million in federal nuclear production tax credits, which are directly passed on to customers to help reduce costs.Duke Energy operates 11 nuclear units at six sites across the Carolinas, making nuclear energy the company's largest generation source in the region.The fleet provides power to more than 8 million homes across the region with consistent, around-the-clock performance.What they're saying: Kelvin Henderson, chief nuclear officer for Duke Energy: "This new record shows the unmatched reliability our nuclear plants deliver every day. It demonstrates the value we're committed to providing for our customers, and it reflects the skill and dedication of the teams who operate these facilities with excellence."Looking ahead: Duke Energy's nuclear strategy – extending operational lifespan, conducting power uprates to gain more capacity from existing infrastructure, and engaging in advanced reactor development – builds on year-over-year gains in output.The result is dependable, low-cost power that helps meet growing energy demands in the Carolinas and strengthens long-term energy security.Nuclear fleet snapshot:PlantCapacity (MW)UnitsLocationBrunswick Nuclear Plant1,870 MW2 unitsSouthport, N.C.Harris Nuclear Plant964 MW1 unitNew Hill, N.C.McGuire Nuclear Station2,316 MW2 unitsHuntersville, N.C.Catawba Nuclear Station2,310 MW2 unitsYork, S.C.Oconee Nuclear Station2,554 MW3 unitsSeneca, S.C.Robinson Nuclear Plant759 MW1 unitHartsville, S.C.Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky.Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage.More information is available at?duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on?X,?LinkedIn,?Instagram, TikTok?and?Facebook, and visit illumination?for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition. Contact: Kelly Woods
24-hour: 800.559.3853



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Original: Duke Energy nuclear fleet sets new all-time reliability record, delivers value for customers

NYSE Content Update: ICE Chat Connects with Crypto Platform Kraken to Up AccessFebruary 18, 2026 8:55 AM
PR Newswire (Canada)

NYSE issues a pre-market daily advisory direct from the trading floor.NEW YORK, Feb. 18, 2026 /CNW/ -- The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) provides a daily pre-market update directly from the NYSE Trading Floor. Access today's NYSE Pre-market update for market insights before trading begins. 



Kristen Scholer delivers the pre-market update on February 18thEquities are fractionally higher in extended trading hours Wednesday morning as Wall Street awaits January FOMC minutes at 2 p.m. Eastern.Intercontinental Exchange's (NYSE: ICE) ICE Chat integrates with cryptocurrency platform Kraken to expand institutional OTC communication.Shares of quantum company Infleqtion (NYSE: INFQ) rose 14% to close at $15.59 in their NYSE trading debut on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) marks 100 straight years of paying a quarterly cash dividend to its shareholders.Opening Bell
Infleqtion (NYSE: INFQ) celebrates its listing on the New York Stock ExchangeClosing Bell
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) celebrates 100 years of dividend payoutsFor market insights, IPO activity, and today's opening bell, download the NYSE TV App: TV.NYSE.com














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Original: NYSE Content Update: ICE Chat Connects with Crypto Platform Kraken to Up Access

Duke Energy is here to help Florida customers after cold snapFebruary 13, 2026 10:29 AM
PR Newswire (US)

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Feb. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Floridians will likely see higher power bills after last week's cold snap, but Duke Energy is here to help its customers with bill-payment resources and important fraud prevention information.







What to know Higher bills ahead: As temperatures plunged, customers' heating systems worked harder, requiring more energy.But rates are still going down: Compared to January, residential customers using 1,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity will see a $33 reduction on their February bills – and another $11 decrease in March.Scams may spike (again): Nearly 800 scam reports were called into Duke Energy in February 2025, after another cold snap, and the company expects a similar uptick this month.Customers are encouraged to slow down and learn to recognize common types of scams.Get helpPayment assistance: Customers can request installment plans and due date extensions, use the payment assistance finder and access programs like the Share the Light Fund ®.Energy-efficiency solutions: Customers can lower energy usage over time with free home assessments, rebates for improvement projects and a range of other tips and tools.Scam reporting: Customers should alert law enforcement, Duke Energy and the Better Business Bureau.Our view"Duke Energy has a dedicated team ready to provide our customers with the individualized support they need," said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. "It's my hope they will come directly to us so we can help them get back on track as quickly as possible and avoid opportunistic, increasingly sophisticated scams."Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,300 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.4 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 54,800 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. More information is available at?duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on?X,?LinkedIn,?Instagram?and?Facebook, and visit illumination?for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition. Contact: Aly Raschid
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
X: @DE_AlyRaschid



View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-is-here-to-help-florida-customers-after-cold-snap-302687780.htmlSOURCE Duke Energy

Original: Duke Energy is here to help Florida customers after cold snap