Duke Energy Corp Stock Price, News & Analysis

Piedmont Natural Gas has requested approval from North Carolina and South Carolina utility commissions to lower customer billing rates due to a decline in natural gas market costs. If approved, residential bills will drop by approximately $5 monthly, totaling $15 for Q1 2022, effective Jan. 1, 2022. The company emphasizes its commitment to pass on market costs without markup. Piedmont encourages customers to use their Equal Payment Program and offers assistance programs for those facing financial difficulties.

The Duke Energy Foundation has awarded $523,000 in grants to enhance emergency preparedness and support diversity initiatives across Florida. The funding benefits 26 organizations, including local emergency management departments, which aid during disasters. Notable projects include Orange County's mobile Community Resilience Pod for emergency aid and support for Hispanic entrepreneurs through Prospera. Duke Energy aims to bolster community resilience while promoting social justice. The foundation allocates over $30 million annually, funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars.

Duke Energy Florida has proposed a fuel adjustment to manage the impact of rising natural gas prices on customer bills. The adjustment will take effect in March 2022, spreading recovery of $247 million in fuel costs over two years, which is expected to increase residential bills by an average of $6.62 per month. Commercial customers may see increases between 4% and 10%. The company aims to minimize financial strain on consumers and maintain cost-effective energy management amidst a 45% rise in natural gas prices since January 2021.

Duke Energy Florida has announced a $150,000 contribution to the Coastal Conservation Association Florida, focusing on marine fisheries conservation and education. A significant portion, approximately $100,000, will fund three new reef systems in the Gulf of Mexico. The collaboration aims to deploy artificial reefs to enhance marine habitats, improve fisheries, and boost local fishing opportunities. Additionally, Duke Energy has provided a $50,000 grant for research on mitigating fish kills due to red tide, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship and community support.

Duke Energy Florida has chosen Alachua and Pinellas counties for its 2021 Site Readiness Program, aimed at enhancing industrial site opportunities. This initiative seeks to prepare sites for economic development investments, partnering with local officials and stakeholders to boost job creation. The program has driven significant economic impact since 2013, contributing to 680 new jobs and $183 million in capital investment. Florida's economic growth has continued, underscored by Duke Energy's role in attracting over 306 companies and nearly $4.5 billion in investments since 2001.

Duke Energy (DUK) has issued a reminder to its Florida customers regarding potential increases in winter energy bills due to rising natural gas prices. The company provides various resources to help customers manage their energy expenses, including free Home Energy Checks and recommendations for energy-saving measures. Key programs like Budget Billing and Pick Your Due Date aim to offer financial flexibility. Duke Energy emphasizes its commitment to supporting customers facing economic hardships by promoting assistance programs and energy-saving tools.

Duke Energy Indiana has allocated over $330,000 to assist customers facing difficulties in paying their winter electric bills. The funds are sourced from Duke Energy contributions along with donations from customers and employees. Qualified customers can receive up to $300 annually. The initiative is part of Duke Energy's Share the Light Fund, which has contributed more than $3.5 million in the last five years. For assistance, customers are encouraged to contact local community action agencies.

Duke Energy Florida has launched its new Bayboro electrical substation, a gas insulated switchgear (GIS) facility aimed at enhancing power reliability for St. Petersburg. This substation, operational since November 29, is designed to withstand 150 mph winds and features an indoor structure that protects equipment from severe weather. The project reduces maintenance costs and supports critical local infrastructure.
Additionally, Duke Energy is investing in renewable energy projects, including a solar array and battery system at the University of South Florida.

Duke Energy has completed a monthlong initiative in South Carolina, providing nearly $150,000 in microgrants to support food insecurity organizations. These unannounced grants helped approximately 50 feeding programs, totaling $250,000 in November alone. The funding will allow organizations like Meals on Wheels and Manna House to expand their services. Duke Energy aims to tackle community food needs while investing over $30 million annually through its foundation. This initiative reflects the company's commitment to community support as it pursues clean energy goals.