Duke Energy has announced new initiatives to help customers manage energy costs as colder temperatures increase demand for heating. January is typically the month with the highest energy use, according to the company.
The utility is offering programs such as bill credits for customers who enroll a qualifying smart thermostat. Participants can receive a $150 initial credit and an additional $50 annually by helping reduce demand during peak times through programs like EnergyWise Home and Power Manager, which are available to Duke Energy Progress and Duke Energy Carolinas customers, respectively.
Customers also have the option to sign up for the Flex Savings Option rate. This time-of-use program allows users to lower their energy bills by shifting usage to off-peak hours.
Additional recommendations from Duke Energy include setting thermostats at the lowest comfortable setting, sealing leaks and insulating homes, changing air filters regularly, using sunlight to help heat rooms during the day, and operating ceiling fans clockwise in winter.
Kendal Bowman, North Carolina president of Duke Energy, said: “We want customers to feel supported and confident about their energy choices this winter. Programs and solutions like Power Manager, EnergyWise Home and Flex Savings Option, along with following simple energy-saving tips, make it easier to manage energy use and find ways to save.”
More than 520,000 customers in the Carolinas currently participate in Power Manager and EnergyWise Home programs.
Duke Energy serves approximately 8.6 million electric customers across six states including Florida and operates 55,100 megawatts of capacity. The company is investing in grid upgrades and cleaner generation sources such as renewables and storage as part of its ongoing transition efforts.
Further information on these programs is available at duke-energy.com/WinterEnergySavings.
