Duke Energy has announced new initiatives to help customers manage energy use and costs as colder weather increases demand for heating. The company notes that January typically brings the highest energy consumption, as heating systems operate more frequently to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
Customers can enroll in programs designed to deliver savings and incentives. By signing up with a qualifying smart thermostat, participants receive a $150 initial bill credit and an additional $50 each year for helping reduce demand during peak times. Duke Energy Progress customers are eligible for the EnergyWise Home program, while those served by Duke Energy Carolinas can join Power Manager.
The Flex Savings Option allows customers to benefit from time-of-use rates, potentially lowering their bills by shifting energy usage to off-peak hours.
Duke Energy also offers several tips to help maximize winter savings: setting thermostats to the lowest comfortable setting, sealing leaks and adding insulation, changing air filters regularly, using sunlight for natural heating during the day, and operating ceiling fans clockwise to circulate warm air.
“We want customers to feel supported and confident about their energy choices this winter,” said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president. “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.”
The company reports that 520,000 customers in the Carolinas are already participating in Power Manager and EnergyWise Home programs.
Duke Energy serves 8.6 million electric utility customers across six states and owns 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities reach 1.7 million customers in five states. The company is investing in grid upgrades and cleaner generation sources as part of its broader transition strategy.
More information about these programs is available at duke-energy.com/WinterEnergySavings.
