Since energy deregulation, customers have the opportunity to choose where their electricity comes from and who supplies it. A utility company still owns and maintains the infrastructure that delivers power to your home or business, but it no longer sets prices. Instead, companies known as retail electricity providers offer supply services to consumers in a competitive marketplace. By comparing rates and plans, you can make sure you are getting the best deal on your energy. A good way to start is by checking the price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) on your current utility bill, also known as a “price-to-compare” rate. This is a basic calculation that will help you compare apples to apples when shopping for plans.
PUCO has provided an Apples to Apples tool on their website that allows you to compare the rates of different companies serving your region. Beware of questionable suppliers who may lure you in with a low rate only to jack up your bill with hidden fees and escalating rates once your term is up.
It’s important to read all the plan details carefully before making a decision. Look for more than just the rate pricing; consider the length of the plan, early termination fees, and any other details that may affect your long-term energy costs. Also, ask the supplier if they offer a budget plan to help you even out your energy consumption across the year and reduce financial burdens on the hottest and coldest months.
Duke Energy has made it clear that they are focused on the future by investing in programs to enhance customer service, increase efficiency, and generate clean energy. Their annual sustainability report provides an overview of their progress towards those goals. They have a clear vision of where they are headed as an industry leader and are prepared to adapt to changes in the market.
In addition to their commitment to the environment, they are dedicated to giving back to their community and employees. They support STEM programs, scholarships for students, and local projects through their foundation. Additionally, they provide customer service tools such as outage maps and energy savings tips, leveraging their corporate infrastructure to provide value to customers.
As the largest electric power company in the United States, their reach is far and wide. As a result, they have the opportunity to influence the national conversation about climate change and help shape policy. However, their reliance on fossil fuels remains problematic.
They need to invest more in renewables and reduce their dependence on fracked gas. Otherwise, their continued expansion of fossil fuels will lead humanity into runaway climate chaos. NC WARN regularly intervenes in dockets at the North Carolina Utilities Commission where duke energy requests rate increases. If this rate increase is approved, it would cost residential customers an average of $20 more each month. This is a huge hardship on families who already struggle to afford the rising costs of living in our state
