Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation have announced $125,000 in microgrants to nine nonprofit organizations in South Carolina. The grants, which are up to $20,000 each, are intended to help nonprofits make critical repairs on homes so they can qualify for energy efficiency upgrades.
Many homes in South Carolina cannot benefit from weatherization programs due to existing health and safety issues such as roof leaks, electrical hazards, mold, pest infestations or structural problems. The funding aims to address these barriers so more households can access energy-saving improvements.
The recipients of the grants include Citizens United for Redevelopment and Economic Stability of Chester ($10,000), City of Florence ($10,000), Emmanuel’s Hammer ($20,000), Habitat for Humanity Greenville County ($20,000), Habitat for Humanity of York County ($10,000), Helping Florence Flourish ($10,000), Rebuild Upstate ($5,000), Sumter United Ministries ($20,000) and United Way of Hartsville ($20,000).
Jerry Dudley, Planning Director for the City of Florence said: “The Duke Energy Foundation grant will enhance the city’s Weatherization and Rehabilitation Program by funding critical home repairs for income-challenged households. Several homeowners are in urgent need of roof repairs. These grant dollars will help extend the reach of the city’s program, allowing us to serve more families and address essential housing needs.”
John Lattimore, Chief Program Officer at Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County stated: “Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County is excited and honored to continue our partnership with Duke Energy and their commitment to providing a better quality of life for families in need. This specific funding will help provide warm, safe and dry conditions through critical home repairs for several deserving families. The need is great in our community and partners like Duke Energy allow us to meet more of that need.”
Tim Pearson, President of Duke Energy South Carolina added: “Many homes in our state have underlying safety issues that prevent homeowners from participating in energy efficiency and weatherization programs that can significantly moderate energy bills and decrease the growing demand on the energy grid. Recent legislative efforts have made it clear energy efficiency is critical to our long-term efforts to respond to growth in our state, and Duke Energy continues to look at new ways of expanding energy saving opportunities for our customers.”
In addition to these grants, Duke Energy Progress began a pilot program in 2024 offering free energy improvements based on income and usage. In 2025, incentives were increased and eligibility expanded across many energy efficiency programs within South Carolina.
The Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually in philanthropic support funded by company shareholders. Duke Energy serves electric customers across six states including North Carolina and South Carolina. More information about its programs can be found at duke-energy.com/SummerSavings.
