Duke Energy News Center

Duke Energy connects Indiana customers to utility assistance; provides energy-saving tips

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 17:34:00 GMT

Company continues proactively notifying customers of payment plans, other tools to help manage energy bills.

PLAINFIELD, Ind. – With rising summer temperatures threatening to cause even more financial hardship for people struggling to pay their energy bills, Duke Energy is continuing to support customers by connecting them with available assistance and offering programs and tools to help manage electric bills, including flexible payment plans.

Assistance programs

Duke Energy is reaching out to customers who are past due through email and/or text with information about utility assistance administered by agencies in their local communities.

LIHEAP

This income-based program allows those earning below certain thresholds to qualify for federal energy bill assistance money through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The qualifying income thresholds are based on factors that include household income and the number of people living in a home. Online and mail-in applications for LIHEAP funds will open on October 1. To learn how to qualify and apply, call 211 or visit in.gov/ihcda.

Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance Program

Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance Program (IERA) dollars are again available to help eligible customers pay past-due rent and utility bills dating back to April 1, 2020. Eligible applicants may receive up to 12 months of rent assistance, which may include up to nine months of past-due rent. The program also covers essential utilities, up to a maximum amount.

Complete details about the IERA Program are available at IndianaHousingNow.org.

Assistance agency funds

Some customers may also qualify for assistance from various government and nonprofit programs for utility bills and other household expenses. in211.org is a free service to help customers find local community agencies that can help meet a wide range of needs, including utility bills, housing, food and other essentials, child and elder care, medical expenses and health counseling. Customers can learn about agencies that serve their area by dialing 211, visiting in211.org online, or by texting their ZIP code to 898.211.

In addition, Duke Energy Indiana customers can learn more about how community agencies can help by visiting our website. Resources are also available here for small business customers, from financial assistance to billing and payment options to professional guidance to manage their energy usage.

Other assistance for managing utility bills

Budget Billing

Duke Energy’s Budget Billing lets customers pay one predictable amount every month to better manage their budget. The amount is periodically reviewed and adjusted. Learn more about Budget Billing here.

Pick Your Due Date

With Pick Your Due Date, customers can choose the date they want their Duke Energy bill to be due each month. Combining Pick Your Due Date together with Budget Billing can give customers even more control over their energy bills. Learn more: www.duke-energy.com/home/billing/pick-your-due-date.

Installment Plans

Installment plans give customers more flexibility to pay a past-due balance over a longer period. Customers can request a few extra days or restructure the past-due balance into a monthly payment plan. Customers should contact Duke Energy Indiana to discuss options available to them by dialing 800.521.2232.

Track, manage energy usage

Energy use typically spikes in the summer since air conditioning is one of the biggest energy users in your home. Customers can also easily track and adjust their usage when temperatures are highest.

Smart meters provide customers with daily and hourly usage information to help them better understand their energy use and take steps to save energy and money. Video here.
Duke Energy customers with smart meters also receive usage alerts through email and/or text halfway through their billing cycle, well before their bill arrives, with their current usage amount and a projection of what their final monthly bill could be.
Customers can also set budget alerts, so they know when their bill reaches a specific dollar amount of their choosing, allowing them to adjust their usage and help save money on their bill.

Other energy-saving programs, tips and guidance to help you manage higher energy bills that can result from increased energy is available at Duke-Energy.com/Summer.

Duke Energy Indiana

Duke Energy Indiana, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, provides about 6,600 megawatts of owned electric capacity to approximately 840,000 customers in a 23,000-square-mile service area, making it Indiana’s largest electric supplier.

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America’s largest energy holding companies. Its electric utilities serve 7.9 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 51,000 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas unit serves 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. The company employs 27,500 people.

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to own or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Duke Energy was named to Fortune’s 2021 “World’s Most Admired Companies” list and Forbes’ “America’s Best Employers” list. More information is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos and videos. Duke Energy’s illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Media contact: McKenzie Barbknecht
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy and GIC close first phase of minority investment in Duke Energy Indiana

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 13:41:00 GMT

GIC acquires 11.05% minority interest in Duke Energy Indiana for $1.025 billion in first of two-phase closing; will ultimately acquire 19.9% minority interest for $2.05 billion.

Transaction addresses Duke Energy’s equity needs in five-year plan; helps fund company’s $59 billion capital plan focused on clean energy investments.

Duke Energy to remain majority owner and sole operator of DEI.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) today announced it has completed the first of a two-phase sale transaction with GIC, receiving cash proceeds of $1.025 billion in exchange for an 11.05% minority interest sale of Duke Energy Indiana (DEI), a subsidiary of Duke Energy, to an affiliate of GIC Private Limited, Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund and an experienced investor in U.S. infrastructure.

Under the previously announced agreement, GIC will acquire a 19.9% indirect minority interest in Duke Energy Indiana for a total purchase price of $2.05 billion in two separate phases. Proceeds from this transaction will help fund the company’s $59 billion capex plan and satisfy all equity capital raising needs through 2025. Duke Energy has the discretion to determine the timing of the second closing, but it will occur no later than January 2023.

“We are pleased to have GIC as a long-term investor in DEI, underscoring the value and growth potential of our Indiana operations,” said Lynn Good, Duke Energy’s chair, president and chief executive officer. “This transaction will allow us to accelerate our clean energy strategy across our regulated utilities and continue delivering sustainable value to our customers, communities and investors.”

“Our commitment to Indiana is strong and steady. This partnership with GIC reflects the extraordinary value Duke Energy and its employees have and will continue to create here in Indiana,” said Stan Pinegar, DEI state president. “Delivering safe, reliable, affordable and increasingly cleaner energy to our customers and serving our communities is our top priority.”

Ang Eng Seng, GIC’s Chief Investment Officer of Infrastructure, said, “As a long-term investor, GIC strongly believes that companies focused on meaningful sustainability practices will create better risk-adjusted returns over the long term. We are committed to actively engaging with Duke Energy’s management team to support their clean energy transition goals and build long-term sustainable value.”

Transaction structure

GIC is investing in an intermediate holding company of which DEI is a wholly owned subsidiary. In connection with the completion of the sale, GIC has received certain limited rights commensurate with its minority stake.

The transaction received approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS).

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC served as Duke Energy's lead financial advisor, and Centerview Partners also served as a financial advisor. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP served as Duke Energy’s legal advisor.

Barclays served as GIC’s exclusive financial advisor. Sidley Austin LLP served as GIC’s lead legal advisor alongside Steptoe & Johnson LLP and Ice Miller LLP.

Duke Energy

About GIC

GIC is a leading global investment firm established in 1981 to secure Singapore’s financial future. As the manager of Singapore’s foreign reserves, we take a long-term, disciplined approach to investing, and are uniquely positioned across a wide range of asset classes and active strategies globally. These include equities, fixed income, real estate, private equity, venture capital, and infrastructure. Our long-term approach, multi-asset capabilities, and global connectivity enable us to be an investor of choice. We seek to add meaningful value to our investments. Headquartered in Singapore, we have a global talent force of over 1,800 people in 10 key financial cities and have investments in over 40 countries. For more information, please visit gic.com.sg or follow us on LinkedIn.

Non-GAAP Reconciliation

Duke Energy Corporation’s (Duke Energy) materials for the GIC Investment in Duke Energy Indiana include a reference to the forecast 2021 adjusted EPS guidance range of $5.00 to $5.30 per share, with a midpoint of approximately $5.15 per share. The materials also reference the long-term range of annual growth of 5%-7% off the midpoint of the 2021 adjusted EPS guidance range, revised up from 4%-6%. The forecast adjusted EPS is a non-GAAP financial measure as it represents basic EPS available to Duke Energy Corporation common stockholders, adjusted for the per share impact of special items. Special items represent certain charges and credits, which management believes are not indicative of Duke Energy’s ongoing performance.

Management believes the presentation of adjusted EPS provides useful information to investors, as it provides them with an additional relevant comparison of Duke Energy’s performance across periods. Management uses this non-GAAP financial measure for planning and forecasting and for reporting financial results to the Duke Energy Board of Directors, employees, stockholders, analysts and investors. Adjusted EPS is also used as a basis for employee incentive bonuses.

The most directly comparable GAAP measure for adjusted EPS is reported basic EPS available to Duke Energy Corporation common stockholders. Due to the forward-looking nature of this non-GAAP financial measure for future periods, information to reconcile it to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure is not available at this time, as management is unable to project all special items for future periods, such as legal settlements, the impact of regulatory orders or asset impairments.

Forward-Looking Information

This document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions and can often be identified by terms and phrases that include “anticipate,” “believe,” “intend,” “estimate,” “expect,” “continue,” “should,” “could,” “may,” “plan,” “project,” “predict,” “will,” “potential,” “forecast,” “target,” “guidance,” “outlook” or other similar terminology. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. For details on the uncertainties that may cause our actual future results to be materially different than those expressed in our forward-looking statements, see our 2019 Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC and available at the SEC’s website at sec.gov. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than described. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Duke Energy media contact: Meredith Archie
800.559.3853

Duke Energy analysts contact: Jack Sullivan
980.373.3564

GIC media contact: Katy Conrad
212.856.2407

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Piedmont Natural Gas reaches rate case agreement with key groups in North Carolina

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 20:46:00 GMT

Agreement supports significant investments for safety, reliability, customer growth.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Piedmont Natural Gas has reached an agreement with consumer and industrial groups in North Carolina for its rate review request, filed in March of this year.

Piedmont plans to implement the increase in November 2021, with the average residential customer in North Carolina paying about $5.50 more per month, or $65 more per year, subject to the completion of two construction projects and an audit of these projects by the NCUC Public Staff.

“We appreciate the Public Staff and all other parties giving such thoughtful consideration to our customers and to the needs of our business,” said Sasha Weintraub, Piedmont Natural Gas senior vice president. “Especially during these challenging economic times, Piedmont remains focused on maintaining an efficient, safe and reliable pipeline network. And while raising rates is never an easy decision, the investments we’ve made are vital to keeping our pipeline system safe, reliable and robust.”

If approved by the North Carolina Utilities Commission, the increase will be approximately $74 million, about 24% less than the $97 million Piedmont requested to recover costs for system growth, infrastructure investments and pipeline safety and security improvements.

The agreement was developed in collaboration with the Carolina Utility Customers Association, the Carolina Industrial Group for Fair Utility Rates and the Public Staff of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, which represents the interests of consumers.

The settlement allows Piedmont Natural Gas a return on equity of 9.6%.

The stipulated rates also impact commercial and industrial customers. To learn more about Piedmont’s proposed rate increase, visit piedmontng.com/rates.

Piedmont Natural Gas

Piedmont Natural Gas, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, is an energy services company whose principal business is the distribution of natural gas to more than 1 million residential, commercial and industrial customers in North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. The company also supplies natural gas to power plants. Piedmont is routinely recognized by J.D. Power for excellent customer satisfaction, and has been named by Cogent Reports as one of the most trusted utility brands in the U.S.

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50% carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to own or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Jennifer Sharpe
Phone: 877.348.3612
Email: jennifer.sharpe@duke-energy.com

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Duke Energy Florida seeks to reduce 2022 bill impacts by 33%

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 18:18:00 GMT

2022 rates provide more flexibility for customers, cleaner and more reliable energy.

Creative solution to sharply limit impact of necessary investment, fuel increases.

Company continues to offer customer assistance, extended payment plans.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Duke Energy Florida is proposing measures to cut the impact of new rates that take effect in January of 2022 by roughly a third.

Working in cooperation with customer groups, Duke Energy Florida has developed an innovative plan to spread the recovery of approximately $247 million of unrecovered fuel costs over two years and forego immediate recovery of costs related to recent storms, among other actions. These steps are estimated to reduce a residential 1,000-kWh customer bill by up to $4.67 monthly, on average.

“We’re always considering how to soften the impact on customer bills, so we’re pleased to propose this creative way to reduce the increase by 33%,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “We want to deliver real value to our customers, including more control of their bills, a stronger, more reliable grid and cleaner energy.”

The rate mitigation agreement helps account for rising natural gas costs, which are market driven and passed through to customers with no markup. Together with the proposed reductions, typical residential customers using 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) will see an increase of $9.24 in their monthly bill, on average, for 2022. Commercial and industrial customers will see bill impacts ranging from a 1% to 8% increase.

The specific bill impact will vary depending on several factors.

Residential customers will also benefit from the removal of credit card fees for bill payments beginning in 2022.

Expanding low-income programs

Duke Energy Florida also recently proposed modifications to demonstrate the company’s leadership and commitment to implement innovative energy efficiency and demand-side management programs.

The modifications specifically recognize the economic hardships many customers are experiencing due to the pandemic and the company’s desire to help its customers reduce their energy bills, as well as provide bill payment assistance.

The filing was part of an agreement developed with customer representatives of several consumer groups, including the CLEO Institute, Vote Solar and the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy.

"Too many families are struggling with unnecessarily high energy bills because their homes lack the basic energy efficiency improvements needed to reduce energy waste," said George Cavros, Florida Energy Policy Attorney for Southern Alliance for Clean Energy. "We thank Duke Energy for its engagement with stakeholders on this first step towards addressing Florida’s significant energy affordability challenge."

Here is a summary of the filing:

Duke Energy Florida will increase the Neighborhood Energy Savers targeted customers by 5%.

The company is also making temporary changes to the approved Florida Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act (FEECA) programs for lower-income customers at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines and who have arrearages that are greater than 60 days. In order to provide almost immediate relief to those customers, all eligible customers enrolled in the company’s approved Residential Demand Response Program will receive a $30 “assistance incentive” in the form of a gift card that can be used to help pay their energy bill.
The second modification to FEECA programs will offer 20,000 assistance kits to provide meaningful energy efficiency savings to customers in need.

The complete filing can be reviewed here.

Customer care

New and existing assistance programs are currently available, all purposefully designed to help customers affected by economic hardships over the course of 2020 and 2021.

Agency assistance may be available to cover some or all past-due utility bill balances. To learn about agencies in your area, dial 211, visit 211.org online or text your ZIP code to 898211 for information on where to get help.

“We are committed to assisting all of our customers, especially those who are most vulnerable. We are here when they need us most,” said Malcolm Barnes, Duke Energy’s general manager for regional customer care operations. “Our customer care specialists are prepared to provide support and manageable solutions through these challenging times so customers can keep their lights on.”

Duke Energy’s Energy Neighbor Fund (ENF) also helps those in need pay their energy bills. The ENF is comprised of donations from employees and customers, of which the Duke Energy Foundation matches up to $500,000. One hundred percent of the funds collected are distributed locally through social service agencies, community action agencies or United Way organizations to help those in need. To find an agency in your county, visit duke-energy.com/ENF.

Duke Energy Florida

Media contact: Ana Gibbs
Cell: 813.928.7263
Media line: 800.559.3853

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Piedmont Natural Gas connects customers to utility assistance; provides energy-saving tips

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 13:17:00 GMT

Company continues proactively notifying customers of payment plans, other tools to help manage energy bills.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – With many customers across its three-state territory experiencing financial hardship and struggling to pay their energy bills, Piedmont Natural Gas continues to support customers, connect them with available assistance, and offer tools and programs – including flexible payment plans – to help manage their natural gas bills.

Assistance Programs

Piedmont is reaching out to customers who are past due through email and/or text with information about utility assistance administered by agencies in their local communities.

LIHEAP

This income-based program allows those earning below certain thresholds to qualify for federal energy bill assistance money through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) program. The qualifying income thresholds are based on factors that include household income and the number of people living in a home. To learn how to qualify and apply for LIHEAP funds in your state, visit:

Emergency Rental Assistance Program/HOPE 2.0

Emergency Rental Assistance Program (HOPE 2.0) dollars are again available to help eligible customers pay past-due rent and utility bills dating back to March 13, 2020. Eligible applicants may receive up to 12 months of rent assistance, which may include up to nine months of past-due rent. The program also covers essential utilities, up to a maximum amount.

Complete details about the HOPE Program are available at:

North Carolina: Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA)/HOPE 2.0 program or 888.9ASK.HOPE
Tennessee: Metro Action Commission HOPE Application, 615.862.RENT or metro.action@nashville.gov

SC Stay Plus

SC Stay Plus is an emergency rental assistance program providing funds to help eligible residential renters pay up to 12 months of past-due rent and utility bills dating back to March 2020.

Homeowner Assistance Fund

The Homeowner Assistance Fund is a new federal program established for homeowners experiencing a financial hardship after Jan. 21, 2020, as a result of COVID-19. Funds will help prevent homeowner mortgage delinquencies, defaults, foreclosures and loss of utility service. Homeowners with an income equal to or less than 150% of the area median (average) income may be eligible. Please note that some states may not yet be accepting applications. Learn more:

North Carolina: Homeowner Assistance Fund
South Carolina: SC Mortgage Rescue Program
Tennessee: Tennessee Housing Development Agency – Help for Homeowners

Assistance Agency Funds

Some customers may also qualify for assistance from various government and nonprofit programs for utility bills and other household expenses. 211.org is a free service to help customers find local community agencies that can help meet a wide range of needs, including utility bills, housing, food and other essentials, child and elder care, medical expenses and health counseling. Customers can learn about agencies that serve their area by dialing 211 or visiting 211.org.

In addition, Piedmont customers can learn more about how community agencies can help by visiting our website. Piedmont’s Share the Warmth Round Up program is an energy-assistance program designed to help low-income individuals and families pay their monthly energy bills – regardless of the energy source used in the home. More information on how to apply for assistance from Share the Warmth funds or on how to enroll to contribute to the program is available at piedmontng.com/ShareTheWarmth.

Other assistance for managing utility bills and energy usage

Equal Payment Plan
Piedmont’s Equal Payment Plan lets customers pay one predictable amount every month to better manage their budget. The amount is periodically reviewed and adjusted. Learn more about the Equal Payment Plan here.

Payment Arrangements
Payment arrangements give customers more flexibility to pay a past-due balance over a longer period. Customers can request a few extra days or restructure the past-due balance into a monthly payment plan. Customers should contact Piedmont Natural Gas at 800.752.7504 to discuss options available to them.

Energy-Saving Tools
Piedmont offers energy-saving programs, tips and guidance to help you manage higher energy bills that can result from increased energy use at piedmontng.com/EnergySavingTools.

Piedmont Natural Gas

Media contact: Jason Wheatley
Phone: 877.348.3612
Email: jason.wheatley@duke-energy.com

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Duke Energy helps build South Carolina workforce with nearly $200,000 in grants with focus on veterans, underserved communities

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 12:15:00 GMT

10 organizations in the Palmetto State receive funding from the Duke Energy Foundation

Grants strengthen programs that serve underrepresented audiences, including minorities and military veterans

GREENVILLE, S.C. – The Duke Energy Foundation has awarded nearly $200,000 in grants to 10 South Carolina organizations focused on building and enhancing strategic engineering initiatives that will help grow the energy industry’s workforce of tomorrow.

“We have a long history of targeting investments to have the greatest impact for our communities,” said Mike Callahan, South Carolina state president for Duke Energy. “Part of that tradition has been a focus on helping to build a diverse workforce for the Palmetto State. These grants build on that by helping expand access to training opportunities for our nation’s military veterans as well as minority and underserved communities. It is critical to continue that tradition and help strengthen the workforce pipeline needed to fuel the state’s economic engine now and in the years to come.”

These grants are part of Duke Energy’s ongoing commitment to workforce development, which totals $1.6 million over the past five years. As South Carolina continues its clean energy transformation, the Duke Energy Foundation is investing in programs that will build the next generation workforce as well as create access to training and job skills that fit current community needs.

The USO has been helping service members and their families transition from their service to civilian life for 80 years. The organization continues that history of service through programs like the USO Pathfinder Scouts, where they work directly with transitioning service members and their families to identify personal and professional goals and connect them with the resources needed to accomplish those goals. Funds from the Duke Energy Foundation will expand an energy specific track of the transition workshop offerings in South Carolina.

“Because of committed and trusted partners like the Duke Energy Foundation, the USO Southeast Region can continue to impact transitioning service members and their spouses in South Carolina with networking opportunities and educational transition programming, helping military families create a plan for success now – and for the future” said Raymond Whitaker, director of operations for the USO Southeast Region.

Grant recipients

Upstate Fatherhood Coalition – Pathways to Employment & Presence Program ($5,000)
Brothers Restoring Urban Hope – Interactive program for underserved students ($10,000)
South Carolina School for the Deaf and Blind – Training for future careers in 3-D printing ($5,000)
American Association of Blacks in Energy – Scholarships for students majoring in STEM fields ($15,000)
University of South Carolina – Washington, D.C., internship program for minority students with focus on energy policy ($56,000)
Joseph’s Outreach – Energy Industry Second Chance Pilot Program ($25,000)
USO – Employment readiness support to transitioning servicemembers ($10,000)
Upstate Warrior Solution – Program provides workforce training and assistance for justice-involved veterans in the Upstate ($20,000)
SC Future Makers – Program matches job seekers to employment opportunities, with a focus on military veterans ($15,000)
South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities – Provides $2,500 scholarships to 12 minority students majoring in engineering ($30,000)

Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts, and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information about the foundation and its Powerful Communities program can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to own or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Contact: Ryan Mosier
24-Hour: 800.559.3853

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Duke Energy connects Florida customers to utility assistance; provides energy-saving tips

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 15:20:00 GMT

Company continues proactively notifying customers of payment plans, other tools to help manage energy bills.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – With rising summer temperatures threatening to cause even more financial hardship for people struggling to pay their energy bills, Duke Energy continues to support customers, connect them with available assistance, and offer tools and programs – including flexible payment plans – to help manage electric bills.

Assistance programs

Duke Energy is reaching out to customers who are past due through email and/or text with information about utility assistance administered by agencies in their local communities.

LIHEAP

This income-based program allows those earning below certain thresholds to qualify for federal energy bill assistance money through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) program. The qualifying income thresholds are based on factors that include household income and the number of people living in a home. To learn how to qualify and apply for LIHEAP funds visit: Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Homeowner Assistance Fund

Assistance agency funds

Some customers may also qualify for assistance from various government and nonprofit programs for utility bills and other household expenses. 211.org is a free service to help customers find local community agencies that can help meet a wide range of needs, including utility bills, housing, food and other essentials, child and elder care, medical expenses and health counseling. To learn about agencies that serve your area dial 211, visit 211.org online or text your zip code to 898211 for information on where to get help.

In addition, Duke Energy Florida customers can learn more about how community agencies can help by visiting our website. Resources are also available here for small business customers, from financial assistance to billing and payment options to professional guidance to manage their energy usage.

Other assistance for managing utility bills

Budget Billing

Duke Energy’s Budget Billing option lets customers pay one predictable amount every month to better manage their budget. The amount is periodically reviewed and adjusted. Learn more about Budget Billing here.

Pick Your Due Date

With Pick Your Due Date, customers can choose the date they want their Duke Energy bill to be due each month. Pick Your Due Date can give customers even more control over their energy bills. Learn more: www.duke-energy.com/home/billing/pick-your-due-date.

Installment Plans

Installment plans give customers more flexibility to pay a past-due balance over a longer period. Customers can request a few extra days or restructure the past-due balance into a monthly payment plan. Customers should contact Duke Energy to discuss options available to them: 800.700.8744.

Track, manage energy usage

Energy use typically spikes in the summer since air conditioning is one of the biggest energy users in your home. Customers can also easily track and adjust their usage when temperatures are highest.

Smart meters provide customers with daily and hourly usage information to help them better understand their energy use and take steps to save energy and money. Video here.
Duke Energy customers with smart meters also receive usage alerts through email and/or text halfway through their billing cycle, well before their bill arrives, with their current usage amount and a projection of what their final monthly bill could be.
Customers can also set budget alerts, so they know when their bill reaches a specific dollar amount of their choosing, allowing them to adjust their usage and help save money on their bill.

Other energy-saving programs, tips and guidance to help you manage higher energy bills that can result from increased energy use are available at Duke-Energy.com/Summer.

Duke Energy Florida

Media contact: Ana Gibbs
Cell: 813.928.7263
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_AnaGibbs

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Statement by Duke Energy CEO Lynn Good following White House Cybersecurity Summit

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 19:29:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) today issued the following statement by Chair, President and CEO Lynn Good. Good attended today’s Cybersecurity Summit at the White House alongside President Biden, several cabinet officials and approximately 30 CEOs from industry and academia.

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Duke Energy is committed to protecting our operations to mitigate the potential impacts to our customers, communities and employees from a cyber event. Given the nature and potential consequences of these cyber threats, a critical element of that commitment is our partnership with governments, the private sector and other thought leaders.

We applaud President Biden for his cybersecurity leadership and for hosting today’s summit, which is part of an ongoing dialogue around potential threats, best practices and lessons learned.

Recognizing that we can never be too safe or prepared, we look forward to continuing to participate in the national conversation around cybersecurity issues and policies.

Duke Energy

Media contact: Neil Nissan
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy connects North Carolina customers to utility assistance; provides energy-saving tips

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 15:26:00 GMT

Company continues proactively notifying customers of payment plans, other tools to help manage energy bills.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – With rising summer temperatures threatening to cause even more financial hardship for people struggling to pay their energy bills, Duke Energy continues to support customers, connect them with available assistance, and offer tools and programs – including flexible payment plans – to help manage electric bills.

Assistance programs

Duke Energy is reaching out to customers who are past due through email and/or text with information about utility assistance administered by agencies in their local communities.

LIHEAP

This income-based program allows those earning below certain thresholds to qualify for federal energy bill assistance money through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) program. The qualifying income thresholds are based on factors that include household income and the number of people living in a home. To learn how to qualify and apply for LIHEAP funds visit: Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Emergency Rental Assistance Program / HOPE 2.0

Complete details about the HOPE Program are available at Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA)/HOPE 2.0 program or applicants can call (888) 9ASK-HOPE.

Homeowner Assistance Fund

Assistance agency funds

In addition, Duke Energy Progress and Duke Energy Carolinas customers can learn more about how community agencies can help by visiting our website. Resources are also available here for small business customers, from financial assistance to billing and payment options to professional guidance to manage their energy usage.

Other assistance for managing utility bills

Budget Billing / Equal Payment Plan

Duke Energy’s Budget Billing and Equal Payment Plan options lets customers pay one predictable amount every month to better manage their budget. The amount is periodically reviewed and adjusted. Learn more about Budget Billing here and learn more about the Equal Payment Plan here.

Pick Your Due Date

Installment Plans

Duke Energy Carolinas: 800.777.9898

Duke Energy Progress: 800.452.2777

Track, manage energy usage

Energy use typically spikes in the summer since air conditioning is one of the biggest energy users in your home. Customers can also easily track and adjust their usage when temperatures are highest.

Smart meters provide customers with daily and hourly usage information to help them better understand their energy use and take steps to save energy and money. Video here.
Duke Energy customers with smart meters also receive usage alerts through email and/or text halfway through their billing cycle, well before their bill arrives, with their current usage amount and a projection of what their final monthly bill could be.
Customers can also set budget alerts, so they know when their bill reaches a specific dollar amount of their choosing, allowing them to adjust their usage and help save money on their bill.

Other energy-saving programs, tips and guidance to help you manage higher energy bills that can result from increased energy use are available at Duke-Energy.com/Summer.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy was named to Fortune’s 2021 “World’s Most Admired Companies” list and Forbes’ “America’s Best Employers” list. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos, videos and other materials. Duke Energy’s illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Media contact: Pam Hardy
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy connects South Carolina customers to utility assistance; provides energy-saving tips

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 11:59:00 GMT

Company proactively notifying customers of payment plans, other tools to help manage energy bills.

GREENVILLE, S.C. – With rising summer temperatures threatening to cause even more financial hardship for people struggling to pay their energy bills, Duke Energy is connecting customers with available assistance, and offering programs and tools to help manage electric bills, including flexible payment plans.

New and existing assistance programs are currently available, all purposely designed to help those affected by the economic impacts of COVID-19 or other hardships encountered over the course of 2020 and 2021.

Assistance programs

Duke Energy is reaching out to customers who are past due through email and/or text with information about utility assistance administered by agencies in their local communities.

Emergency Rental Assistance Program/SC Stay Plus

Emergency Rental Assistance Program funds are available to help eligible residential renters pay up to 12 months of past-due rent and utility bills dating back to March 13, 2020. Complete details about the SC Stay Plus program and an online application for renters are available at schousing.com/Home/SC-Stay-Plus. Applicants may also call 800.467.0412 to start the application process. The deadline for applying for funds is Sept. 30, 2021.

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

This income-based assistance program allows those earning below certain income thresholds to qualify for federal energy bill assistance money. The qualifying income thresholds are based on factors that include household income and the number of people living in your home. To learn how to qualify and apply for LIHEAP funds, visit oeo.sc.gov/liheap.html.

Assistance agency funds

Some customers may also qualify for assistance from various government and nonprofit programs for utility bills and other household expenses. Customers can learn about agencies that serve their area, by dialing 211 or visiting sc211.org online. This free service helps connect customers to local community agencies supplying aid for a wide range of needs, including help with energy bills.

Other assistance for managing utility bills

Budget Billing/Equal Payment Plan

Duke Energy’s Budget Billing option lets customers pay one predictable amount every month to better manage their budget. Monthly Budget Billing amounts are based on a customer’s annual energy costs divided into 12 equal monthly payments. The amount is periodically reviewed and adjusted. Learn more: www.duke-energy.com/home/billing/budget-billing.

Pick Your Due Date

Installment Plans

Duke Energy Carolinas: 800.777.9898
Duke Energy Progress: 800.452.2777

Track, manage energy usage

Energy use typically spikes in the summer since air conditioning is one of the biggest energy users in your home. Customers can also easily track and adjust their usage when temperatures are highest.

Smart meters provide customers with daily and hourly usage information to help them better understand their energy use and take steps to save energy and money. Video here.
Duke Energy customers with smart meters also receive usage alerts through email and/or text halfway through their billing cycle, well before their bill arrives, with their current usage amount and a projection of what their final monthly bill could be.
Customers can also set budget alerts, so they know when their bill reaches a specific dollar amount of their choosing, allowing them to adjust their usage and help save money on their bill.

Other energy-saving programs, tips and guidance to help you manage higher energy bills that can result from increased energy use are available at Duke-Energy.com/Summer.

Duke Energy

Media contact: Ryan Mosier
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy honors six companies with 2021 Power Partner Awards

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 14:54:00 GMT

Selected companies are leaders in sustainability excellence, solution innovation, service excellence.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy has selected six organizations to receive its 2021 Power Partner Awards.

The program, which began in 1992, recognizes businesses and other organizations that achieve notable results in categories including innovative energy solutions, solution innovation, service excellence, and sustainability excellence.

“We are honored to do business with the exceptional organizations selected to receive this award that recognizes their operational excellence and innovation,” said Chris Edge, Duke Energy vice president of large business customers. “All of these distinguished businesses not only are a benefit to their customers, stakeholders and communities, but are also valued customers of Duke Energy.”

The 2021 Power Partner award-winning organizations are:

Barrette Outdoor Living, Brooksville, Fla.
Category: Sustainability Excellence

Barrette Outdoor Living, a leader in manufacturing steel and aluminum residential fence and railing, constructed and interconnected a 200,000-square-foot rooftop solar array at its manufacturing facility in Brooksville, Fla. It is capable of producing more than 2.3 MW of power. The company says the solar installation offsets approximately 81% of the facility’s electricity consumption. Additionally, Barrette Outdoor Living converted all of its Duke Energy Florida-owned outdoor lighting to LED. Barrette further expanded its sustainability focus by owning and operating GreenWays, a recycling program for pre- and post-consumer rigid PVC with facilities in Fredericksburg, Va., and Plant City, Fla.

Caldwell Memorial Hospital, Lenoir, N.C.
Category: Service Excellence, Solution Innovation

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Caldwell Memorial Hospital (CMH) worked in collaboration with Samaritan's Purse to provide an area to set up COVID-19 hospital tents to relieve the influx of patients in surrounding area hospitals. The 30-bed complex took in patients from five counties, including Caldwell, Burke, Catawba, Watauga and Alexander. Duke Energy worked closely with CMH and Samaritan's Purse to expedite new electric service to the tent complex. Additionally, the Duke Energy Foundation provided a donation to help with the cost of the hospital tents.

DePauw University, Greencastle, Ind.
Category: Sustainability Excellence

In 2017, DePauw University began planning a Campus Energy Master Plan (CEMP) to develop a long-term energy infrastructure strategy to upgrade heating and cooling systems to lower costs and improve sustainability. In alignment with the planning of the CEMP, DePauw opted back into Duke Energy’s Smart $aver program to take advantage of incentives and rebates. Since 2017, the university has received a total of more than $319,000 in incentives and is expected to receive another nearly $178,000 for the new chiller plant and HVAC system. Leveraging its sustainability focus as an educational opportunity, DePauw also installed a net-metered rooftop solar array on the indoor track and tennis facility, along with a dashboard to empower student ideas and opportunities.

Ford Motor Co., Sharonville, Ohio
Category: Sustainability Excellence, Service Excellence

Ford has operated its Sharonville, Ohio, transmission plant since 1958. Beginning in 2017, Ford undertook a needed plant upgrade, investing $900 million in modernizing its facility. As part of this effort, Ford replaced over 10,000 HID lights with LEDs, earning more than $1 million in Duke Energy Smart $aver incentives. Additionally, when Duke Energy needed land to build a new transmission switching station to improve reliability in this industrial area, Ford donated the property, significantly reducing the time and cost of this vital project.

IBM, Durham, N.C. 
Category: Sustainability Excellence

Known for its technological innovation, IBM is also a leader in driving sustainability throughout its global footprint. By purchasing renewable energy credits (RECs) through Duke Energy’s Clean Energy Resources, IBM has offset 100% of its Durham, N.C., facility’s energy consumption with green attributes. IBM is working with DECER to purchase RECs to offset its 2021 energy consumption, as well as a multiyear deal for the future. In addition, IBM took advantage of Duke Energy’s Smart $aver Custom incentive to upgrade its chilled water system, saving nearly 2 million kWh of energy annually, which is enough energy to power 166 homes.

Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind.
Category: Solution Innovation

Purdue University and Duke Energy have a long-standing operational relationship and most recently worked together on a new project at the West Lafayette campus – a 16-MW combined heat and power (CHP) plant that will produce both electricity and steam more efficiently and cost-effectively than a traditional utility plant. A Duke Energy-owned asset, the CHP plant will provide a new steam source to Purdue for campus heating, while at the same time providing power to Duke Energy’s grid and increasing reliability for Duke Energy customers. This project is one of those rare win-win-win successes!

Duke Energy

Media contact: Ana Gibbs
Cell: 813.928.7263
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_AnaGibbs

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Duke Energy teams with Accenture and Microsoft to develop first-of-its-kind methane-emissions monitoring platform

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 13:14:00 GMT

Satellites will identify and track methane emissions in near-real time, providing greater accuracy in data collection.

Companies to begin pilot in Greenville, S.C., to refine technology.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) today announced it is working with Accenture (NYSE: ACN) and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) on the development of a new technology platform designed to measure actual baseline methane emissions from natural gas distribution systems.

This unique platform will provide near-real-time data collection, allowing Duke Energy’s field response teams to more rapidly identify and repair methane leaks.

The cloud-hosted platform will track and prioritize data associated with leaks using advanced detection methods such as satellites, fixed-wing aircraft and ground-level sensing technology. The new sensor technology can detect trace levels of methane emissions that current technology may not identify. The new platform will augment the company’s drive toward net-zero methane emissions in its natural gas business by 2030.

As a part of this effort, the companies will execute monthly satellite captures in Greenville, S.C., beginning in August to further refine the technology for identifying methane leaks on Duke Energy's pipeline system. Duke Energy anticipates implementing its methane-monitoring platform by October 2021.

Duke Energy began testing satellites for detecting leaks on its natural gas system in 2020. The company found satellite detection has the potential to be more accurate and an expedient way to locate leaks when compared to traditional leak survey methods such as aerial and foot patrols.

“This platform will re-imagine how natural gas local distribution companies calculate methane emissions and perform leak surveys and improve the expediency in which leaks may be repaired, resulting in dramatically lower methane emissions,” said Brian Weisker, senior vice president and chief operations officer, natural gas at Duke Energy. “The current industry standard uses calculated data to report methane emissions, which leaves room for inaccuracies when it comes to actual methane levels.”

To help design the Microsoft Azure-based platform to handle a high volume of data from a variety of sources, Accenture – in collaboration with Avanade, its joint venture with Microsoft – will apply its experience in analytics, artificial intelligence and cloud computing. These technologies will help drive the insights from the platform for improving operations and delivering on the methane emissions goal.

“Our work with Duke Energy and Microsoft demonstrates how technology, innovation and artificial intelligence can help address sustainability challenges,” said Mark Schuler, a managing director in Accenture’s utilities practice. “Together, we can show others how to achieve their sustainability goals and make it an integral part of delivering value for all stakeholders, and not as one-off practices.”

“We are looking forward to contributing to this collaboration with Duke Energy, Accenture and Avanade in supporting Duke Energy’s progress to net-zero methane by 2030,” said Darryl Willis, Microsoft corporate vice president of energy and sustainability. “This is a great example of innovation and collaboration coming together to enable industries to more accurately detect, calculate and report on emissions and take action.”

Methane makes up nearly 10% of all U.S. greenhouse gas emissions every year, according to recent estimates from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, with the energy sector being one of the largest sources of U.S. methane emissions.

To learn more about Duke Energy’s climate goals, visit duke-energy.com/our-company/sustainability.

Duke Energy

Accenture

Accenture is a global professional services company with leading capabilities in digital, cloud and security. Combining unmatched experience and specialized skills across more than 40 industries, we offer Strategy and Consulting, Interactive, Technology and Operations services – all powered by the world’s largest network of Advanced Technology and Intelligent Operations centers. Our 569,000 people deliver on the promise of technology and human ingenuity every day, serving clients in more than 120 countries. We embrace the power of change to create value and shared success for our clients, people, shareholders, partners and communities. Visit us at www.accenture.com.

Duke Energy media contact: Valerie Patterson
800.559.3853

Accenture media contact: Guy Cantwell
281.900.9089

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Duke Energy helps communities across North Carolina prepare sites to bring local investment, jobs

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 13:41:00 GMT

Site Readiness Program has triggered 6,500 new jobs, nearly $7.5 billion in capital investment in North Carolina since 2005.

Each site eligible for $10,000 in matching grants from Duke Energy to help recruitment efforts.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy has selected nine properties in eight counties across North Carolina for inclusion in its 2021 Site Readiness Program to enhance the readiness of the sites for business and industrial development. The properties are:

Catawba County – Hunsucker Crossing
Durham County – Eno Venture Park
Guilford County – Brittway II Industrial Site
Harnett County – Byrd Site
Henderson County – Hudgens Site
Jones-Craven County – Weyerhaeuser Property
Randolph County – Wall Brothers Property
Rowan County – Mid-South Industrial Park Building
Rowan County – NC Finishing Site

Through the Site Readiness Program, Duke Energy identifies high-potential sites and partners with county officials and local economic development professionals to develop a strategy for getting the sites fully ready to market to industrial projects. In North Carolina alone, Duke Energy has helped prepare 136 properties that have won 35 major projects since the program started in 2005, drawing more than 6,500 new jobs and nearly $7.5 billion in capital investment to the state.

“Despite the challenging environment through the pandemic, Duke Energy remained fully committed to economic development and our Site Readiness Program,” said Stu Heishman, Duke Energy’s vice president of economic development and business recruitment. “We are seeing a significant increase in project activity across the Carolinas, and demand for qualified industrial sites has never been stronger. Our team will continue to work with local and regional partners to aggressively advance the readiness of our prime industrial sites.”

North Carolina has been adding jobs at a remarkable clip in 2021. Hardly a week goes by without the N.C. Department of Commerce heralding one or more new arrivals to the state, with Duke Energy playing a supporting role in many of the economic development wins.

Inside each site

Duke Energy worked with major site selection firms to evaluate the sites, including Global Location Strategies, Site Selection Group and Strategic Development Group. Based on consultant recommendations, Duke Energy will collaborate with county leaders and local economic development professionals to develop an improved strategy for marketing these sites. Additionally, each site is eligible to apply for a $10,000 matching grant from Duke Energy to help prepare it to attract projects.

After each site’s state of readiness has advanced, Duke Energy’s business recruitment team strategically markets each of them nationwide to companies looking to expand or relocate their operations.

Catawba County – Hunsucker Crossing

The 314-acre Hunsucker Crossing property is strategically located in “Charlotte’s Great Northwest,” fronting I-40 between the I-77, I-85 and U.S. 321 corridors. Respected for its manufacturing excellence, Catawba County is seeing rapidly increasing residential growth from Charlotte and provides easy access in one hour or less to the entertainment and sports scenes of the Queen City and the wealth of recreational opportunities available in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Hunsucker Crossing is supported by unique workforce training programs and world-renowned manufacturing support organizations. Combining a strong site location with robust workforce assets, proven manufacturing expertise and burgeoning residential growth, Hunsucker Crossing is well-positioned to house the next generation of advanced manufacturers and continue the rich manufacturing heritage of the area.

“As we’ve often said, a successful car lot has many different choices for the prospective buyer – and the Hunsucker Crossing sites could fill that mix of larger footprint opportunities the I-40 corridor is lacking to serve Charlotte’s Great Northwest region at this Conover site.” – Scott Millar, president, Catawba County Economic Development Corporation

Durham County – Eno Venture Park

The 160-acre Eno Venture Park in Durham is a tremendous site well-suited to life science and advanced manufacturing. Located in the heart of the Research Triangle region, the site has the necessary infrastructure to serve most industrial customers.

“The Research Triangle region is one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, and planning for the future is a top priority for us in Durham County. The Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce appreciates our partnership with Duke Energy as we work together to develop next-generation industrial sites that can provide more quality job opportunities to our community. We are thankful for the services made available to us through the Site Readiness Program, and we look forward to working with Duke Energy to market Durham County’s industrial development opportunities to the global business community.” – Ryan Regan, vice president of economic development, Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce

Guilford County – Brittway II Industrial Site

About 10 minutes south of downtown Greensboro, this site is strategically located on the north side of I-85/I-40 at the south Elm Eugene interchange and has more than a half-mile of interstate frontage with rail on-site. The 115-acre site offers a remarkable industrial opportunity in the most attractive city in the Triad. Significant electrical power, natural gas, rail service and water are just a few of this property’s premier assets. This site sits in a manufacturing labor pool ranked in the top 10 in the Southeast and second in North Carolina, with a labor shed of over 831,000 and connectivity from more than six major interstates serving the community.

“Economic development in the Southeast is intense, but it becomes an arms race when you add in the entire U.S. Without a shovel-ready site, communities are often left out of the competition before it even starts. That’s why having a partner like Duke Energy is so vital. Through the Duke Energy Site Readiness Program, communities can leverage the chance to have a site fully vetted and ready to go for the next opportunity. We are honored to have been selected to participate and thankful to have a trusted ally like Duke Energy.” – Marvin Price, executive vice president of economic development, Greensboro Chamber of Commerce

Harnett County – Byrd Site

The 257-acre Byrd Site in Lillington is strategically located in the Research Triangle region with easy access to Raleigh, Durham and Fayetteville. The site is a 20-minute drive to I-95 and 30 minutes to I-40 via four-lane U.S. 401, or 20 minutes to I-295, which accesses I-95 to the south. The site is served by Norfolk Southern Railway. Electricity provided by Duke Energy and gas provided by Piedmont Natural Gas are available at the site and capable of accommodating large and small manufacturing operations.

“The Town of Lillington is very appreciative for being given the opportunity to participate in the Duke Energy Site Readiness Program. The significance of the town’s participation in this program has been immense in addition to being extremely helpful in our efforts to expand our inventory of available industrial properties.” – Joseph Jeffries, town manager, Town of Lillington

Henderson County – Hudgens Site

The 107-acre Hudgens site, located 10 minutes outside the City of Hendersonville in Henderson County, offers unique development opportunities in western North Carolina. “The Field” consists of 62 remarkably flat acres, while “The Pines” is 45 acres with a gentle slope. Both are less than a mile from the I-26 Upward Road exit. I-40 and I-85 are within a 35-minute drive, positioning the property within a day’s drive-time from all major markets along the Eastern Seaboard. The property is served by robust, industrial-quality utilities. Henderson County is the employment destination of western North Carolina, with a rich legacy of manufacturing supported by a regional 11-county labor shed, innovative workforce development partnerships and an unparalleled quality of life in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

“The Duke Energy Site Readiness Program allowed us to view property from the client’s point of view. The attention to detail of the team helped us realize the opportunities of the site and better prepare for industrial development. This allows us to work with the landowner to move their site to a more ready state and improve the overall competitiveness of Henderson County.” – Brittany Brady, president and CEO, Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development

Jones-Craven County – Weyerhaeuser Property

Located less than 5 miles from I-42, along U.S. 17 and within three hours of three Atlantic coast ports, the potential Jones-Craven industrial park offers a phenomenal industrial opportunity that is one of the most attractive manufacturing properties in eastern North Carolina. Totaling more than 1,300 acres, the site is located near Camp Lejeune, Cherry Point Air Station and iconic manufacturers such as Hatteras Yachts, BSH, Moen and Electrolux. The site is served by both an electrical and natural gas transmission line.

“The value of Craven County’s participation in the Duke Energy Site Readiness Program has given us the tools to be responsive to those making investments into the county. We cannot thank Duke Energy enough for this opportunity and their partnership in economic development.” – Jeff Wood, economic development director, Craven County

Randolph County – Wall Brothers Property

The future 170-acre industrial park located on Wall Brothers Road in Sophia, just north of Asheboro, is a critical component of Randolph County’s industrial growth plan. Strategically located just off I-74, a connector to I-85 within 15 miles, this site is easily accessible to major markets. Substantial on-site utilities include power, natural gas and water, and planning is underway and funds have been identified to extend sewer to the site. With a flexible layout, this park can accommodate manufacturing and/or distribution buildings ranging in size from 50,000 square feet to 800,000 square feet.

“Being selected for the Duke Energy Site Readiness Program could not have come at a better time for Randolph County because the demand for readily available sites is more prevalent now than ever before. As Randolph County prepares to expand its inventory of viable industrial sites, the program provided the constructive guidance needed to move the development of our site forward with confidence. We are thankful to have been selected for this program and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community.” – Crystal Gettys, business recruitment director, Randolph County Economic Development Corporation

Rowan County – Mid-South Industrial Park Building

Located in Rowan County, the Mid-South Industrial Park Building offers more than 1 million square feet of manufacturing and distribution space on 537 acres, with ideal positioning on U.S. 70 in the Charlotte metro region. The building features 30-foot ceilings, rail access provided by Norfolk Southern, a 2.3-MGD wastewater treatment plant and 97 MW electric availability from an on-site substation. Available for sale or lease, the Mid-South Industrial building is located within 14 miles of three interstates (I-40, I-85, I-77).

Rowan County – Former NC Finishing Company Site

Located 35 minutes north of Charlotte, the former NC Finishing Company site in Spencer offers a promising redevelopment opportunity with quick access to I-85. The 176-acre site is bisected by U.S. 29, U.S. 70 and Norfolk Southern’s main line. The 51-acre northern portion has frontage along the Yadkin River and is suitable for a variety of industrial, commercial and residential options. Located in an opportunity zone, the 125-acre southern portion provides approximately 3,600 feet of rail frontage and is zoned for heavy industrial uses. There is also an active state permit allowing withdrawal from and discharge into the Yadkin River.

“We would like to thank Duke Energy for recognizing the economic development potential of both these sites and Rowan County. Their Site Readiness Program offers a tremendous benefit to communities and we look forward to participating yet again in 2022.” – Scott Shelton, vice president, Rowan EDC

Economic impact

For more than 100 years, Duke Energy has powered North Carolina and its economy through significant business recruitment and retention programs.

Duke Energy’s economic development efforts are perennially recognized by Site Selection magazine in the publication’s annual list of “Top Utilities in Economic Development.” Through these efforts, Duke Energy helped attract $6 billion in capital investment in North Carolina that produced 8,000 jobs for the state in 2020.

Here is a behind-the-scenes window into one of those wins: A new home for Nestlé Purina in North Carolina | Duke Energy | illumination (duke-energy.com)

The company’s economic impact in its home state in 2020 extended far beyond job recruitment, including:

$200 million in property taxes in 2020
$1.37 billion spent with North Carolina suppliers
Duke Energy donated $20 million across North Carolina in 2020
Duke Energy’s 16,000 employees and 25,000 retirees/alumni living in North Carolina contributed $5.2 million to local and state nonprofits through volunteer hours and financial donations.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to own or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Bill Norton
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy helps South Carolina communities prepare sites to bring investment, jobs to rural regions

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 13:13:00 GMT

Chester, Lancaster counties latest to use company’s Site Readiness Program to help prepare high-quality industrial locations.

Company has powered Palmetto State and its economy for more than a century through significant business recruitment, retention efforts.

GREENVILLE, S.C. – Duke Energy has selected two properties in South Carolina for participation in its 2021 Site Readiness Program to enhance the readiness of the sites for business and industrial development.

The locations of the sites – in Chester and Lancaster counties – continue to highlight the economic advantages for industry relocating to and expanding in the Palmetto State along the highly attractive Interstate 77 corridor.

Through the Site Readiness Program, Duke Energy identifies high-potential sites and partners with county officials and local economic development professionals to develop a strategy for getting the sites fully ready to market to industrial projects. The program has helped prepare nearly 80 properties that have won 18 major projects in South Carolina since the program started in 2005, resulting in nearly 3,000 new jobs and more than $1 billion in capital investment.

Duke Energy worked with major site selection firms to evaluate the sites, including Strategic Development Group and Site Selection Group. Based on consultant recommendations, Duke Energy will collaborate with county leaders and local economic development professionals to develop an improved strategy for marketing these sites. Additionally, each site is eligible to apply for a $10,000 matching grant from Duke Energy to help prepare it to attract projects.

Team sport

South Carolina is home to a bustling economy that continues to recruit national and international industries. These efforts are even more critical to the many rural areas of the state, including Chester and Lancaster counties. These efforts are paying off, capturing significant capital investment and bringing residents of the region many years of gainful employment.

“Duke Energy has been instrumental in the recruitment of significant industry to Chester County,” said Robert Long, Chester County economic development director. “You don’t get Giti Tire, you don’t get Roseburg Forest Products and you don’t get Gallo Winery to come to Chester County without their help, and we are grateful to have such a great community partner that truly understands economic development.”

Like Chester County, Lancaster County has worked to maximize its potential by utilizing tools like the Site Readiness Program to drive industrial growth and recruit new businesses to the county, including Haile Metals Lab, Fancy Pokket Bakery and Don Construction Products.

“Lancaster County greatly appreciates Duke Energy selecting the property for the Duke Site Readiness Program,” said Jamie Gilbert, executive director for the Lancaster County Department of Economic Development. “The information and analysis generated through the program has already played a pivotal role in our efforts to market the sites and attract the interest of sizable industrial projects.”

Site descriptions

Chester County – The Interstate Business Park is located on the southwest corner of Interstate 77 at Exit 65 with interstate visibility. It is situated adjacent to Giti Tire along the growing Highway 9 industrial corridor that is home to dozens of top-tier manufacturers, including the recently announced E. & J. Gallo Winery. It is located just 40 minutes from Charlotte and 50 minutes from Columbia. The labor force exceeds 485,000 within a 45-minute drive of the site. There are a total of 109 acres with full utilities available. There are two access points to Highway 9, one of which is already signalized. The existing centrally located pond could be turned into an amenity. This site would be ideal for a business park or industrial flex development. It could accommodate seven to nine buildings and is more than 1 million square feet.

Lancaster County – The 571-acre Lancaster Air Rail Park Phase 2 is a strategically important industrial park capable of accommodating a variety of large-scale manufacturing projects. Located in Lancaster’s Highway 9 industrial corridor, significant electric and natural gas capacities are available at the site. Logistically, the property is served by the L&C Railroad, which connects to CSX and Norfolk Southern, and Interstate 77 is just a 15-minute drive via Highway 9.

Economic impact

For more than 100 years, Duke Energy has powered South Carolina and its economy through significant business recruitment and retention efforts.

Duke Energy’s economic development efforts are perennially recognized by Site Selection magazine in the publication’s annual list of “Top Utilities in Economic Development.” Through these efforts, Duke Energy helped recruit $640 million in capital investment in South Carolina and more than 1,200 jobs for the state in 2020.

In addition to the significant efforts by the company to recruit and retain business in the state, the company has a sizable economic presence in South Carolina as a major local employer investing heavily in the region – currently with an impact of $7.6 billion annually. While those impacts are highest around the three nuclear stations that power more than 50% of the state’s carbon-free electricity, Duke Energy’s economic impact extends to 42 of South Carolina’s 46 counties. That’s 16,645 jobs across the Palmetto State – producing $1.2 billion in annual labor income – that would not exist otherwise.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to own or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Ryan Mosier
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy Florida urges customers to prepare for Tropical Depression Fred

Sat, 14 Aug 2021 14:51:00 GMT

Duke Energy meteorologists continue to monitor storm.

Company making preparations.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Duke Energy Florida is preparing for Tropical Depression Fred and is urging customers to prepare as well.

Company meteorologists are tracking the storm and crews are preparing to safely and quickly respond if the storm impacts Duke Energy Florida’s service area.

Tropical Depression Fred could potentially strengthen and bring heavy rainfall, strong winds and localized flooding to portions of the company’s service area.

The company will bring in crews from the Carolinas if additional resources are needed to support power restoration.

“Duke Energy is ready to respond should outages occur,” said Todd Fountain, Duke Energy Florida storm director. “Tropical weather events like Fred can bring wind-blown debris and flooding that can impact our infrastructure. We will continue to keep customers informed and encourage everyone to monitor this system so they can stay safe.”

In advance of the storm, Duke Energy will move power utility crews and resources so they are staged in areas and ready to help restore power as soon as it is safe to do so.

In addition, line technicians and workers are checking equipment, supplies and inventories to ensure adequate materials are available to make repairs and restore power outages.

Restoring power after a storm can be challenging for utility repair crews, as travel and work conditions can be impacted by high winds, downed trees and flooding.

Before bulk power can be restored, crews first must assess the extent of damage to determine which crews, equipment and supplies will be needed before repairs can begin.

Strengthening grid

In addition to trimming trees and inspecting and replacing wires and wood poles, the company has invested in grid automation and smart technologies to reduce the duration and number of outages and restore service faster when outages occur.

Duke Energy’s smart-thinking grid automatically detects outages and intelligently reroutes power to speed restoration or avoid outages altogether. In 2020, smart, self-healing technology helped to avoid nearly 290,000 extended outages in Florida, saving customers around 18.9 million minutes of service interruption, nearly double the hours saved in 2019. Over the next few years, Duke Energy expects to install enough self-healing technology to serve most customers.

After a storm, Duke Energy crews must physically inspect miles of power line to ensure everyone’s power is restored. It’s time consuming, but Duke Energy crews now can use a technology called Ping-it to remotely check that service has been restored following repairs. Ping-it sends a signal to each meter in a few seconds to confirm repairs were successful. In Florida, Duke Energy has installed nearly 2 million smart meters that enable this technology.

Safety information

Duke Energy has made changes to the way it responds to major storms to promote the safety of crews and communities during COVID-19. Many of those process modifications and improvements will continue during the 2021 storm season. For more information, please see dukeenergyupdates.com.

The safety of our customers and communities is important. Duke Energy encourages customers to have a plan in place to respond to an extended power outage after a storm or other severe weather. Below are some tips:

Before storm

Create (or update) an emergency supply kit to save valuable time later. The kit should include everything an individual or family would need for at least two weeks, especially medicines, water, non-perishable foods and other supplies that might be hard to find after a storm hits. Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has relaxed some of its guidance for vaccinated individuals, an emergency kit should still include items that can help protect you and others from COVID-19, such as hand sanitizer, bar or liquid soap, and face coverings aligned with CDC guidance.

Keep a portable radio or TV or a NOAA weather radio on hand to monitor weather forecasts and important information from state and local officials.

Charge cellphones, computers and other electronic devices in advance of storms to stay connected to important safety and response information. Consider purchasing portable chargers and make sure they are fully charged as well.

Maintain a plan to move family members – especially those with special needs – to a safe, alternative location in case an extended power outage occurs or evacuation is required.

Pet owners should arrange to stay at evacuation shelters that accept pets; friends' or family members' homes; or pet-friendly hotels.

After storm

Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized, as well as trees, limbs or anything in contact with lines.

If a power line falls across a car that you are in, stay in the car. If you MUST get out of the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.

If you need to go to a disaster shelter, follow CDC recommendations for staying safe and healthy in a public disaster shelter during the COVID-19 pandemic.

For more tips on how to prepare for storm season, and how Duke Energy can help, please visit duke-energy.com/StormTips.

For storm or power restoration updates, follow Duke Energy on Twitter (@DukeEnergy) and Facebook (Duke Energy). A checklist serves as a helpful guide, but it's critical before, during and after a storm to follow the instructions and warnings of emergency management officials in your area.

Outage reporting

While residents of coastal areas are most at risk of being affected by the storm, such storms also can bring damaging high winds and rain inland. Before the storm hits, customers should contact us to make sure their contact information is up to date and their communication preferences are noted, so they receive proactive outreach on the status on a power outage they may experience. Customers who experience an outage during a storm can report it the following ways:

Visit duke-energy.com on a desktop computer or mobile device.

Use the Duke Energy mobile app – Download the Duke Energy App from a smartphone via Apple Store or Google Play.

Text OUT to 57801 (standard text and data charges may apply).

Call the automated outage-reporting system, at: 800.228.8485

Customer service specialists will be available to manage customer calls should the need arise, with more than 1,500 additional corporate responders from across all Duke Energy jurisdictions available to assist as needed.

Duke Energy Florida

Media contact: Ana Gibbs
Cell: 813.928.7263
Media line: 800.559.3853

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Piedmont Natural Gas, Duke Energy remind communities to call 811 before digging

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 17:03:00 GMT

Aug. 11 is 811 Day, recognizing importance of having underground utility lines marked prior to digging, excavating.

Calling 811 prevents injuries, outages, costly repairs – keeping everyone safer.

Underground utility lines in U.S. were hit 532,000 times in 2019 – nearly a 5% increase over prior year.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – In recognition of 811 Day, Piedmont Natural Gas and Duke Energy are reminding their customers and communities to call 811 before digging to protect the nation’s underground utility infrastructure, prevent potential personal injury and avoid electric and natural gas outages.

“During the warmer months and as we move into the fall, many people may be working on outdoor projects that may involve digging,” said Piedmont Natural Gas Senior Vice President Sasha Weintraub. “We’re asking anyone who might be starting a project in their yard to please remember to call 811 at least three days before they dig to prevent personal harm, service outages and costs to replace damaged lines.”

The national “811 Call Before You Dig” system was created so anyone who plans to dig anywhere can call to have underground utility lines clearly marked. Calling 811 is a free service. Contractors, homeowners, businessowners and anyone preparing for a digging project of any kind should call 811 at least three business days before digging begins. The local utilities will then send a crew to mark underground lines in the area (electric, natural gas, water, sewer, phone, cable TV and others) with stakes, flags or paint.

“While accidents do happen, most cut lines can be prevented with a free call to 811,” Weintraub said. “In addition to the danger and expense of damaged utilities, many incidents lead to road closures and evacuations, and they can tie up police, fire and other emergency resources who are needed elsewhere.”

In 2020, Piedmont and Duke Energy together reported more than 5,800 cuts to underground lines (natural gas and electric) in their service territories. Specifically, Piedmont and Duke Energy reported approximately 3,025 damages to their underground natural gas facilities in the Carolinas, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky; Duke Energy reported around 2,800 damages to its underground electric network in all its service territories.

In late 2020, the Common Ground Alliance (CGA) issued a report stating that 532,000 excavation-related damages to underground facilities occurred nationwide in 2019, compared to the 2018 estimate of 509,000 damages. The CGA is a national organization formed in 2000 to unify all 50 states in a shared effort to prevent damage to underground utilities and infrastructure.

For a video that shows how to use 811, click here. For additional information about 811, visit Call 811 Before You Dig. To get in touch with the 811 center in your state, dial 811 or visit call811.com.

Piedmont Natural Gas

Duke Energy

Media contact: Jason Wheatley
Phone: 877.348.3612
Email: jason.wheatley@duke-energy.com

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Duke Energy builds pipeline of workers for Indiana businesses with $280,000 in workforce training grants

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 16:45:00 GMT

11 workforce development programs receive Duke Energy Foundation grants.

Duke Energy Foundation has awarded $6.3 million in workforce grants in past 5 years throughout states served by company.

PLAINFIELD, Ind. – The Duke Energy Foundation has awarded approximately $280,000 in grants to 11 workforce development and education programs in Indiana to help create a pipeline of workers prepared for employment.

“I hear consistently from Indiana businesses that well-trained workers are one of their greatest needs,” said Duke Energy Indiana president Stan Pinegar. “Many of the jobs don’t require a college degree but instead need skilled workers with specialized training. These grants support that demand. Developing a skilled workforce is key to attracting and retaining business in Indiana, and it’s a high priority of Duke Energy.”

Dimension Mill in Bloomington, Ind., received one of the grants to support its 10-week, free program for the under- or unemployed who are interested in starting a new career in the tech sector. Called “The Mill Code School,” Dimension focuses on local, smaller technology businesses with urgent talent needs. Besides software development training, it offers career readiness, a dedicated career coach and mock interviews with local and national employers as well as diversity and inclusion training.

“Small tech companies have urgent talent needs,” said Melissa Ward, head of Initiatives and Partnerships at The Mill. “With the help of grants such as this, we partner with Ivy Tech Community College and can provide not only training for those interested in starting a new career in technology, but we help with connections and the job search. Code/IT Academy is a matchmaker of sorts, training new employees and connecting them with growing tech companies in our area.”

2021 grant recipients, awards

Bona Vista Programs Inc., Howard County, $10,000

Specialized training will help prepare caregivers for the developmentally disabled.

Columbus Area Chamber Foundation, Bartholomew County, $15,000

Supporting entrepreneurship and creation of innovation-driven businesses.

Dimension Mill Inc., Monroe County, $34,500

Training program for under/unemployed who are interested in starting a new career in the technology sector.

Goodwill Education Initiatives, Marion County, $40,000

Helping adults earn a high school diploma and post-secondary credits.

Hamilton Heights School Corporation, Hamilton County, $20,000

Career and technical education programs.

Huntington University, Huntington County, $10,000

Agriculture workforce development.

Indiana Veteran Initiative, Marion County, $50,000

Support for ambassadors on military bases to help transition veterans to Indiana companies.

Noblesville Schools Education Foundation, Hamilton County, $10,000

SoftSkills integration within Noblesville Schools’ internship program.

Region 10 Workforce Board, Floyd County, $50,000

Training for skills needed by local manufacturing industry.

Vigo County School Corporation, Vigo County, $30,000

Countywide College and Career Pathways program for high school juniors and seniors.

Westfield Education Foundation, Hamilton County, $10,000

Support for certification cost for students and teachers in its trades program.

Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation contributes more than $2 million annually in charitable gifts to Indiana and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information about the foundation and its Powerful Communities program can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

Media contact: Angeline Protogere
Cell: 317.431.1910
Media line: 800.559.3853

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Duke Energy gives $250,000 in urban revitalization grants to help Greater Cincinnati neighborhoods through projects that bring jobs, growth to region

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 14:51:00 GMT

Program focused on creating jobs through redevelopment, restoration of urban properties.

More than $2.9 million in grants awarded to 91 projects since program’s 2011 launch.

CINCINNATI – Duke Energy today announced the recipients of its 2021 Urban Revitalization grants, which deliver $250,000 to eight redevelopment and small business assistance programs across southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky.

This is the 11th year for the company to distribute Urban Revitalization grants. Since launching the program in 2011, Duke Energy has awarded more than $2.9 million to 91 grantees across Greater Cincinnati.

“Our urban corridors and main streets are critical to the vitality of our local communities, but they have been adversely impacted by the pandemic,” said Amy Spiller, president, Duke Energy Ohio and Kentucky. “Through our Urban Revitalization grants, we are able to help be a part of the long-term solutions our neighborhoods need to spur development and succeed.”

The grants typically provide gap funding and are catalysts for further economic development in the urban core.

“Keeping our communities vibrant is critical now more than ever. Receiving this grant from Duke Energy will allow us to pay for the pre-development costs and accelerate bringing Northwood Cider Company to Norwood. Duke Energy’s grant is a testament to their commitment to helping small businesses and local economies. And, for that we’re grateful,” said Mary Miller, president, Norwood Together.

“We are very appreciative of our partnership with the Duke Energy Foundation which so strongly supports our investments in Northern Kentucky’s River Cities,” said Jeanne Schroer, president/CEO, Catalytic Fund. “Duke Energy consistently gives back to the communities they serve and their support is critical given the increased need over the past 18 months. With Duke’s support, we can continue to convert vacant and blighted buildings into productive assets, bring jobs to our region, and continue to help our local economies recover,” Schroer added.

2021 Urban Revitalization Grant recipients

Ohio

Corporation of Silverton
$20,000

Funds will be used in two entire city blocks along Montgomery Road targeted as ripe for redevelopment. The proposed mixed-use redevelopment would alter current land uses, increase density and replace existing buildings.

HCDC, Bond Hill and Roselawn
$40,000

Grant will be used to assist small businesses in need in the Bond Hill and Roselawn areas.

Norwood Together, Northwoods Cider Co., 2075 Mills Ave., Norwood
$20,000

The goal of this project is to assist Northwood Cider Co. to locate its business in the heart of the Norwood business district by providing funding for pre-development costs.

ROMAC/Regal Project, West End
$50,000

These funds will be used to help ROMAC create the premier hub of arts and culture in the region that supports and showcases multicultural artists. The center will be essential for building community, supporting development, nurturing health and well-being, and contributing to economic opportunity.

Kentucky

Catalytic Development Funding Corp., Char Restaurant, 6th and Madison, Covington
$35,000

The grant will be used to help redevelop the old, six-story Republic Building to create a rooftop restaurant in the downtown urban core of Covington’s historic district.

Catalytic Development Funding Corp., Raymee, 6th and Berry, Dayton
$40,000

Funds will be used to find a partner to design and engineer the redevelopment of this prominent, vacant corner historic building in Dayton’s business district into a high-quality mixed-use asset.

Catalytic Development Funding Corp., The Granary, 532 W. 10th Street, Newport
$35,000

Funds will be used to engineer and design the former grain and storage facility into The Granary restaurant and event space, located in the west side of Newport.

Center for Great Neighborhoods, St. Elizabeth Studios, Eastern Avenue and 20th Street, Covington
$10,000

Grant dollars will be used to help design building out the fifth story of the building, currently vacant, into unique artist studios and creative businesses, which are in high demand in Northern Kentucky.

Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky

Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, provides electric service to about 860,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in a 3,000-square-mile service area, and natural gas service to approximately 538,000 customers.

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts, and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information about the foundation and its Powerful Communities program can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

Media contact: Sally Thelen
Office: 513.287.2432
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_SallyT

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Duke Energy reports second-quarter 2021 financial results

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 10:34:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) has posted its second-quarter 2021 financial results in a news release available on the company's website at the following link: duke-energy.com/investors.

Lynn Good, chair, president and chief executive officer, and Steve Young, executive vice president and chief financial officer, will discuss the company's financial results and other business and financial updates during an investor presentation at 10 a.m. ET today.

The call can be accessed via the investors' section (duke-energy.com/investors) of Duke Energy’s website or by dialing 800-458-4121 in the U.S. or 323-794-2093 outside the U.S. The confirmation code is 3383817. Please call 10 to 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.

A replay of the conference call will be available until 1 p.m. ET, Aug. 15, 2021, by calling 888-203-1112 in the U.S. or 719-457-0820 outside the U.S., and using the code 3383817. An audio replay and transcript will also be available by accessing the investors' section of the company’s website.

Duke Energy

Media contact: Meredith Archie
800.559.3853

Analysts contact: Jack Sullivan
980.373.3564

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Save money, stay cool as heat wave hits the Carolinas

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 14:14:00 GMT

Duke Energy offers tips, tools to help customers manage energy use and bills during heat wave.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – As temperatures threaten to reach triple digits in the Carolinas today and Friday, Duke Energy is providing tips and tools to help customers save energy – and money – and try to stay cool.

Duke Energy has sufficient resources to meet customers’ energy needs and continues to monitor its power plants, power lines and other equipment to help ensure customers receive reliable service during the heat wave.

Low- to no-cost energy efficiency tips

High temperatures can lead to higher energy usage and bills as customers combat the heat. Below are some tips to help manage your energy use.

Change air filters regularly. A dirty air filter makes an HVAC system work harder, which uses more energy.
Set your thermostat at the highest comfortable setting. The smaller the difference between the inside and outside temperatures, the lower your energy usage and bill will be.
Close blinds, drapes and curtains during the hottest part of the day. Keeping your blinds, drapes and curtains closed will help prevent the sun's rays from heating your house.
Use a ceiling fan in occupied rooms to supplement your air conditioning. Make sure the fans are set to operate in a counterclockwise direction to push cool air down into living spaces. Only use ceiling fans in rooms that are occupied; fans cool people, not things.
Grill outdoors. Using your electric oven and stovetop creates a lot of indoor heat. Help save energy by firing up the grill outdoors or prepare meals that don't require cooking.
Turn off unnecessary lights. Be sure to turn off lights when you leave a room. Lights emit heat and cause your air conditioning system to work harder.

Track, manage your energy usage

Energy use typically spikes in the summer since air conditioning is one of the biggest energy users in your home. Customers can also easily track and adjust their usage during this week’s heatwave.

Customers with smart meters can check online to view their daily usage. Smart meters collect usage information by the hour, so checking spikes throughout the month – by day and even hour – can show what appliances and behaviors are increasing their bills. Video and b-roll available here.
Duke Energy customers with smart meters also receive usage alerts through email and/or text halfway through their billing cycle, well before their bill arrives, with their current usage amount and a projection of what their final monthly bill could be.
Customers can also set budget alerts, so they know when their bill reaches a specific dollar amount of their choosing, allowing them to adjust their usage and help save money on their bill.
Customers without smart meters can sign up to receive high bill alerts for when adverse weather is projected to increase their electric bills by at least 30 percent and $30 compared to historical usage.

Other energy-saving programs, tips and guidance to help you manage higher energy bills that can result from increased energy is available at Duke-Energy.com/Summer.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Meghan Miles
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_MeghanM

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Duke Energy reaches 10,000-megawatt renewable energy milestone

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 12:20:00 GMT

Milestone demonstrates progress towards achieving net-zero goals by 2050.

Company commissions 144-MW Pflugerville Solar Facility in Texas.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – With the 144-megawatt (MW) Pflugerville Solar facility coming online today, Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) reached a significant milestone – it now owns, operates, or purchases more than 10,000 MW of solar and wind energy throughout the United States from both its regulated and nonregulated businesses.

As one of the nation’s top renewable energy providers, Duke Energy's renewables portfolio includes nearly 200 sites in 22 states, with over 1,000 megawatts of new projects under construction throughout the country, including Florida, Texas, and the Carolinas.

At peak output, the company’s current renewables portfolio capacity generates enough energy to serve the equivalent of approximately 2.4 million homes and businesses.

“Renewables are playing a major role as we make strong progress toward our ambitious climate goals of at least 50% carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero by 2050,” said Brian Savoy, Duke Energy’s executive vice president, chief strategy and commercial officer. “This next decade will be our biggest ever, and we’re well on our way to exceeding our decarbonization goals by growing our renewables portfolio to 16 GW by 2025 and 24 GW by 2030.”

In addition to carbon reduction and the benefits of creating a diverse energy infrastructure, solar and wind development fosters economic development and job creation in the areas that Duke Energy serves. Currently, Duke Energy employs nearly 700 wind and solar technicians, project developers, support staff, and third-party contract workers, as well as provides more than $29 million in annual lease payments to local landowners. Additionally, at peak construction, renewable energy development generates hundreds of jobs in the communities where our projects are located.

“For more than a decade, Duke Energy has been delivering low-cost renewable power to our customers,” said Chris Fallon, president of Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions. “These projects deliver significant economic and environmental benefits, while providing unique sustainability solutions for our customers and communities.”

Pflugerville Solar

Located in Travis County, Texas, the 144-MW Pflugerville Solar project is the fifth utility scale solar facility that Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions,* a nonregulated commercial brand of Duke Energy, has placed in commercial operation in the state. Earlier this year, it also announced the construction of a sixth solar facility, the 250-MW Pisgah Ridge Solar project in Navarro County, Texas, which is expected to achieve commercial operation by the end of 2022.

The energy generated from the Pflugerville Solar project will be sold to Austin Energy under a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA).

Austin Energy, the city of Austin’s electric utility, serves more than 528,000 customer accounts and more than 1 million residents in Greater Austin. This PPA supports Austin Energy’s renewable energy goals.

“We currently meet about 70% of our customers’ energy needs with carbon-free resources,” said Austin Energy General Manager Jackie Sargent. “Adding the Pflugerville Solar project to our portfolio will bring us closer to meeting our affordability and climate protection goals adopted by the Austin City Council and championed by our customers.”

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions acquired the project from Recurrent Energy, a wholly owned subsidiary of Canadian Solar Inc. (NASDAQ: CSIQ), in December 2020.

The 932-acre site, which contains approximately 489,600 Canadian Solar high-efficiency bifacial BiKu modules, will generate enough energy to power approximately 27,000 homes.

The engineering and construction for the project were performed by Signal Energy, and Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions will provide long-term operations and maintenance services to the project.

During peak construction, the project employed 350 workers, with at least 50% of those construction jobs filled by local skilled tradesmen from the Travis County area. Along with indirect economic benefits that accompany solar project development, such as increased local spending in the service and construction industries, Pflugerville Solar will also have a positive economic impact on the local community by providing significant tax revenues for Travis County and the Elgin Independent School District.

Looking ahead

Duke Energy has set a goal of reaching 16,000 MW of renewables by 2025 and 47,000 MW by 2050.

Renewable energy projects currently under development in the company’s regulated and nonregulated footprint include:

Project	Megawatts	Location	In-service date
Broad River Solar*	50 MW	Cleveland County, N.C.	End of 2021
Stony Knoll Solar*	22.6 MW	Surry County, N.C.	End of 2021
Speedway Solar*	22.6 MW	Cabarrus County, N.C.	End of 2021
Woodfin Solar	5 MW	Buncombe County, N.C.	End of 2021
Duette Solar	74.5 MW	Manatee County, Fla.	End of 2021
Charlie Creek Solar	74.9 MW	Hardee County, Fla.	End of 2021
Bay Trail Solar	74.9 MW	Citrus County, Fla.	Early 2022
Fort Green Solar	74.9 MW	Hardee County, Fla.	Early 2022
Sandy Creek Solar	74.9 MW	Bay County, Fla.	Mid-2022
Bay Ranch Solar	74.9 MW	Bay County, Fla.	End of 2022
Hardeetown Solar	74.9 MW	Levy County, Fla.	End of 2022
Hildreth Solar	74.9 MW	Suwannee County, Fla.	End of 2022
Pisgah Ridge Solar*	250 MW	Navarro County, Texas	End of 2022
High Springs Solar	74.9	Alachua County, Fla.	Early 2023

* Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions operated/owned projects.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50% carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to own or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Cautionary language concerning forward-looking statements

This document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by terms and phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will," "potential," "forecast," "target," "outlook," "guidance," and similar expressions. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. These risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Duke Energy’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and available at the SEC’s website at sec.gov. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than Duke Energy has described. Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

* Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions is a nonregulated commercial brand of Duke Energy Corporation, which includes the following subsidiaries of Duke Energy Corporation that are registered to transact business in various states and may be branded as Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions for marketing purposes: Duke Energy Commercial Enterprises, Inc.; Duke Energy One, Inc.; Duke Energy Renewables, Inc.; Duke Energy Renewables Commercial, LLC; Duke Energy Renewable Services, LLC; Duke Energy Renewables Solar, LLC; Duke Energy Renewables Storage, LLC; Duke Energy Renewables Wind, LLC; and REC Solar Commercial Corporation.

Media contact: Jennifer Garber
24-Hour: 800.559.3853

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Duke Energy helps build North Carolina workforce with $615,000 in grants to community colleges, HBCUs and nonprofits

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 15:26:00 GMT

19 workforce development programs receive Duke Energy Foundation grants

Grants strengthen programs that serve underrepresented audiences, including women, minorities and veterans

Duke Energy Foundation has made $6.3 million in workforce grants in the last five years

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy has awarded $615,000 in grants to 19 workforce development and education programs in North Carolina to help job seekers and students prepare for employment, particularly in the energy sector. The grants support innovative workforce education and training initiatives at community colleges, historically black colleges and universities, and nonprofits across the state.

These grants are part of Duke Energy’s ongoing commitment to workforce development, which totals $6.3 million over the last five years. As North Carolina continues its clean energy transformation, the Duke Energy Foundation is investing in programs that will build the next generation workforce as well as create access to training and job skills that fit current community needs.

“At Duke Energy, we are helping build a diverse workforce for North Carolina by expanding access to training opportunities across the state, particularly in minority and underserved communities,” said Stephen De May, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president. “Our state is enjoying robust growth, and if employers and employees are going to benefit from that together, we must ensure that workers have the skills required by the industries looking to relocate here.”

The College of Engineering at North Carolina A&T State University received a grant to support its five-week bridge program known as HOME – Helping Orient Minorities to Engineering. For nearly a decade, the Duke Energy Foundation has helped fund this nationwide recruitment/retention initiative that seeks to attract and retain high-achieving minority students in engineering and computer science.

“North Carolina A&T appreciates the investment of corporate partners like Duke Energy, since the support assists us in addressing the critical need in the nation of educating and graduating diverse engineers and computer scientists prepared to address the global challenges of today and tomorrow,” said Dr. Robin N. Coger, dean of the College of Engineering at North Carolina A&T.

The following organizations received 2021 workforce grants; quotes from individual grant recipients can be found here.

Grant Recipients, Programs and Awards

Catawba Valley Community College Foundation – Alternative Combustion Program Expansion ($20,000)
Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute Foundation – Substation Relay Technician Program ($40,000)
FSIC American Innovation and Opportunity Fund – AIOF Dream Creators Work Force Development Program ($25,000)
Gardhouse Limited – Career Journey Mapping for College Students of Color ($10,000)
Gaston Innovation Group – TechWorks Academy ($20,000)
Isothermal Community College – Protective Relay Education Enhancement Project ($30,000)
Johnson C. Smith University – JCSU Career Pathways Experiential Initiative ($25,000)
MeckEd – STEM Career Exposure ($15,000)
myFutureNC – myFutureNC Workforce and Education ($100,000)
Nash Community College Foundation – NCC Electric Lineworker Recruitment and Equipment Upgrade ($30,000)
North Carolina A&T Foundation – Helping Orient Minorities to Engineering (H.O.M.E.) ($75,000)
North Carolina Central University Foundation – Duke Energy EDGE Program - Project Based Learning ($50,000)
Richmond Community College Foundation – Electric Utility Relay and Substation Technology ($40,000)
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Foundation – Modernizing welding equipment to improve student learning ($25,000)
She Built This City – Women in Trades ($10,000)
USO of North Carolina – Service Member and Spouse Transitions in North Carolina ($20,000)
Veterans Bridge Home – Veterans to Work ($15,000)
Wake Technical Community College Foundation – Applied Engineering & Technologies Opportunity Grant ($40,000)
Young Black Leadership Alliance – YBLA Career Development Program ($25,000)

Duke Energy Foundation

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Contact: Bill Norton
Cell: 704.763.6059
24-Hour: 800.559.3853

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Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions’ 182-MW Maryneal Windpower in Texas starts commercial operation

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 11:06:00 GMT

Mobile has 12-year purchase agreement for the wind energy produced by the project

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions,* a nonregulated commercial brand of Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), today announced the commercial operation of the 182-megawatt (MW) Maryneal Windpower project in Nolan County, Texas.

The Maryneal project increases Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions’ U.S. wind capacity to over 3,000 MW. The site will provide enough renewable energy to power the equivalent of more than 54,000 U.S. homes.

In 2019, Sprint, now part of T-Mobile, signed a 12-year virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) for 173.3 MW of the wind generated by the project. The VPPA agreement, which will settle on an as-generated basis tied to Maryneal Windpower’s real-time energy output, will enable T-Mobile to significantly reduce its carbon footprint and will match approximately 9% of T-Mobile’s energy consumption.

“Projects like Maryneal Windpower play a huge role in T-Mobile’s commitments to fight climate change and bring us another step closer to achieving our goal of using 100% renewable energy by the end of 2021 – even after our merger with Sprint in 2020 almost doubled our company footprint,” said Brigitta Witt, T-Mobile vice president of Social Impact and Sustainability. “Working with companies like Duke Energy, we’re able to make a positive impact not only on the environment but also in the local community – it’s a win-win for everyone involved.”

Along with indirect economic benefits that accompany wind project development, such as increased local spending in the service and construction industries, Maryneal Windpower created approximately 200 jobs during peak construction. Additionally, the site will have a positive economic impact on the local community by providing significant local tax revenues during assessment years of commercial operation to the county and local school districts, as well as meaningful payments to participating landowners.

“Wind projects such as Maryneal contribute to a cleaner, stronger economy and help create a more diverse energy infrastructure in Texas,” said Chris Fallon, president of Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions. “We’re excited to work with T-Mobile to create jobs, strengthen the local economy and generate clean energy, while also helping them address their renewable energy goal.”

The long-term VPPA complements T-Mobile’s long-standing sustainability strategy, which includes reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, conserving natural resources such as water and paper, eliminating waste from all corners of the business and responsibly recycling waste when possible. Schneider Electric Energy and Sustainability Services advised T-Mobile on the Maryneal VPPA, supporting project selection and negotiations.

Wanzek Construction was the contractor for the project, and Nordex USA supplied 38 4.8-MW wind turbines for the site. Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions will perform the site’s long-term maintenance and operations.

As one of the nation’s top renewable energy providers, Duke Energy plans to reach 16 GW of renewable energy by the end of 2025 and 47 GW by 2050.

About Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions is a leader in sustainable energy, helping large enterprises reduce power costs, lower emissions, and increase resiliency. The team provides wind, solar, resilient backup power, and managed energy services to over 1,000 projects across the U.S., with a total electric capacity of more than 5,100 megawatts of nonregulated renewable energy. Visit Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions and follow on LinkedIn and YouTube for more information.

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos, videos and other materials. Duke Energy’s illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

About T-Mobile

T-Mobile U.S. Inc. (NASDAQ: TMUS) is America’s supercharged Un-carrier, delivering an advanced 4G LTE and transformative nationwide 5G network that will offer reliable connectivity for all. T-Mobile’s customers benefit from its unmatched combination of value and quality, unwavering obsession with offering them the best possible service experience and undisputable drive for disruption that creates competition and innovation in wireless and beyond. Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile provides services through its subsidiaries and operates its flagship brands, T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile and Sprint. For more information please visit: https://www.t-mobile.com.

Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
This document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by terms and phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will," "potential," "forecast," "target," "outlook," "guidance," and similar expressions. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. These risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Duke Energy’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than Duke Energy has described. Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact: Jennifer Garber
24-Hour: 800.559.3853

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Piedmont Natural Gas purchases compressed natural gas fueling station in Greer, S.C.

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 14:19:00 GMT

Facility is utility’s 12th publicly accessible CNG fueling station; fourth in South Carolina.

Location offers convenient fueling option for CNG-powered vehicles traveling on Interstate 85.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Piedmont Natural Gas today announced its purchase of a compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling station in Greer, S.C., from St. Louis-based Spire CNG Inc. The facility is Piedmont’s 12th CNG fueling station in the company’s three-state service territory and its fourth in South Carolina.

Located at exit 60 off Interstate 85, near S.C. Highway 101, the station provides a convenient fueling stop for trucks, fleet vehicles and other vehicles that run on CNG. The station features six fast-fill fuel pumps, can accommodate Class 8 tractor-trailer trucks and is accessible 24/7.

“Compressed natural gas offers several advantages to traditional fuels, from fuel-cost savings to helping reduce vehicles’ carbon footprints,” said Phillip Grigsby, senior vice president of ventures and business development at Piedmont Natural Gas. “This station is a great match for Piedmont’s sustainability goals, and we’re pleased to offer lower-cost, lower-emission CNG to more motorists driving along the I-85 corridor.”

Thanks to the domestic abundance of natural gas, the price of CNG remains below that of conventional vehicle fuels. With savings over conventional fuels such as gasoline and diesel, business fleets and the trucking industry have found CNG to be a cost-effective fueling solution. Almost 50% of Piedmont’s own utility fleet consists of CNG-powered or CNG-capable vehicles.

CNG also is a more environmentally friendly choice; natural gas vehicles are 90% cleaner than the federal Environmental Protection Agency’s current NOx standard. CNG emits up to 21% fewer greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than comparable gasoline and diesel vehicles. Many state and local governments also offer incentives to encourage the adoption of natural gas vehicles.

To learn more about Piedmont’s network of CNG fueling stations, natural gas vehicles and their benefits, visit piedmontng.com/vehiclesandfueling.

Piedmont Natural Gas

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Jason Wheatley, Piedmont Natural Gas
Phone: 877.348.3612
Email: jason.wheatley@duke-energy.com

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Duke Energy Florida announces 4 new solar sites

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 15:41:00 GMT

New sites are part of $1-billion statewide solar investment.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Duke Energy Florida today announced the locations of its four newest solar power plants – the latest move in the company’s program to expand its renewable generation portfolio.

“We continue investing in utility-scale solar in Florida because our customers deserve a cleaner energy future,” said Duke Energy Florida state president Melissa Seixas. “These solar plants are the latest milestones in our strategy to deliver reliable, cost-effective, clean energy to our customers.”

Duke Energy Florida plans to invest an estimated $1 billion in 10 new solar power plants across Florida, including the four sites announced today.

Construction on the four sites will begin in early 2022 and will take approximately 9 to 12 months to complete. Construction of all 10 sites is projected to be finished by late 2024.

Combined, the plants will produce about 750 megawatts (MW) of new, cost-effective solar power.

One of the new sites will be built in Suwannee County in north Florida.

“Suwannee County welcomes Duke Energy’s latest solar project. It promotes green energy and brings jobs and capital investment into our community,” said Suwannee County economic development director Jimmy Norris. ”We invite more opportunities that protect the environment while helping the future growth of our community.”

The four new sites:

The Hildreth Solar Power Plant will be built on 635 acres in Suwannee County, Fla. Once operational, the 74.9-MW facility will consist of approximately 220,000 single-axis tracking bifacial solar panels. Its innovative double-sided panel design is highly efficient and tracks the movement of the sun. The plant will be capable of effectively producing enough electricity to power approximately 23,000 average-sized homes at peak production.
The Bay Ranch Solar Power Plant will be built on 645 acres in Bay County, Fla. The 74.9-MW plant will consist of approximately 220,000 single-axis bifacial tracking solar panels that will produce enough carbon-free energy to effectively power more than 23,000 average-sized homes at peak production. Its innovative double-sided panel design is highly efficient and tracks the movement of the sun.
The Hardeetown Solar Power Plant will be built on 650 acres in Levy County, Fla. Once operational, the 74.9-MW facility will consist of approximately 218,000 single-axis bifacial tracking solar panels. Its double-sided panel design is highly efficient and tracks the movement of the sun.
The High Springs Solar Power Plant is proposed to be built on 700 acres in Alachua County, Fla. Once operational, the 74.9-MW facility will consist of approximately 216,000 single-axis tracking solar panels. The plant will be capable of effectively producing enough electricity to power approximately 23,000 average-sized homes at peak production.

Duke Energy’s solar generation portfolio represents more than $2 billion of investment, about 1,500-MW of emission-free generation and approximately five million solar panels in the ground by 2024.

The company currently has more than 900-MW of solar generation under construction or in operation in Florida.

Building A Smarter Energy Future®

Duke Energy Florida is a leader in advancing clean energy in the state.

Earlier this year, the company announced two other new solar sites:

Construction is underway at the Bay Trail Solar Power Plant, sited on 500 acres in Citrus County, Fla. Once operational, the 74.9-MW facility will consist of approximately 197,000 tracking bifacial solar panels. Its innovative double-sided panel design is highly efficient and tracks the movement of the sun. The plant will be capable of effectively producing enough electricity to power approximately 23,000 average-sized homes at peak production.

The Fort Green Solar Power Plant is being mobilized on 500 acres in Hardee County, Fla. The 74.9-MW plant will consist of approximately 265,000 bifacial solar panels, utilizing a fixed-tilt racking system that will produce enough carbon-free energy to effectively power more than 23,000 average-sized homes at peak production.

Once both sites are finished, the Bay Trail and Fort Green solar power plants will help Duke Energy Florida complete the installation of its three-millionth solar panel in the state.

In February 2020, Duke Energy Florida announced the installation of its one-millionth solar panel in Florida at the company’s Columbia Solar Power Plant in Fort White, Fla.

Video of installation of one-millionth solar panel at Columbia Solar Power Plant

Video of Columbia plant, from drone

More information about the installation

Duke Energy Florida

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Ana Gibbs
Cell: 813.928.7263
Media line: 800.559.3853

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Duke Energy responds to Elliott Management’s latest letter

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 15:18:00 GMT

Duke Energy’s management team has the unanimous support of Duke’s Board of Directors.

Duke Energy’s total shareholder return has outperformed its industry peers, currently trades at a premium.

Duke Energy’s independent, diverse Board has overseen significant growth at the company.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Below is Duke Energy’s (NYSE: DUK) statement in response to Elliott Management’s announcement today:

The new Elliott Management letter to the Board of Directors is the latest attempt to push its short-term agenda at the expense of long-term shareholder value as well as the interests of Duke Energy’s employees and the communities it serves.

Duke Energy remains open to value-creating ideas in the company’s pursuit of continuous operational improvement and frequently engages with shareholders for their input, including a good faith engagement with Elliott over the last 12 months. However, Elliott has again failed to provide any concrete and specific ideas to increase shareholder value, choosing instead to launch public attacks supported by cherry-picked data and anonymous sources. Duke remains focused on delivering long-term value and growth to customers and investors in all jurisdictions.

This announcement is similar to earlier Elliott plans that failed to gain support. Elliott first proposed a preferential equity scheme in which the company would issue up to $7 billion of deeply discounted equity to Elliott and its hedge fund allies, which would materially dilute Duke’s existing shareholders. After that was rejected by the Duke Energy Board, Elliott then publicly advocated for an illogical, complex three-way breakup of the company.

Elliott’s “shrink-the-company” break-up proposal collapsed immediately because it was financially unsound and ran counter to the strategic direction of the entire industry. Over the past several months, Duke Energy’s management team has been in active dialogue with the equity analyst community and institutional shareholders. Our largest investors, as well as analysts, public officials, and other stakeholders were near universal in their rejection of the hedge fund’s unsound plan.

Now, Elliott is taking aim at Duke Energy’s leadership to find a way to force a shareholder-value-destroying plan that has no support.

Duke Energy’s management team and Board are focused on executing on its long-term strategy, which enjoys broad and deep shareholder and stakeholder support, and continuing to deliver customer benefits and create jobs in the communities the company serves. Duke Energy and its Board will always advocate for the best long-term interests of its shareholders and other stakeholders over any narrow special or short-term interest.

Elliott’s attempt to undermine Duke Energy’s leadership team ignores the diverse and experienced professional talent that drives this company and is silent on the significant accomplishments it has achieved.

Duke Energy is now leading the largest, most ambitious clean energy transition in North America, in collaboration with all stakeholders across all of Duke’s service territories. As a result of successfully positioning the company for this transition, coupled with disciplined top tier cost efficiency and operational excellence, Duke Energy’s Total Shareholder Return (TSR) over the last several years has outperformed peers across the regulated utility industry and Duke is currently trading at a premium valuation. Duke Energy’s 3-year Total Shareholder Return of 47% exceeds that of the UTY Index (43%) and the S&P Utility Index (40%), as of July 16, 2021.

The management team has completed a multi-year transformation of Duke Energy’s business portfolio, including divesting its international business, reducing its commercial business exposure and executing the highly successful acquisition of Piedmont Natural Gas, which has generated outstanding results.

In addition, the company has recently achieved several milestone events that provide certainty for growth, including landmark settlements with North Carolina to close all coal ash basins and the pending sale of a minority stake in Duke Energy Indiana at an attractive valuation that satisfies the company’s equity needs while allowing the company to increase its long-term adjusted EPS growth rate to 5% to 7% through 2025.

Duke’s Board of Directors has overseen the company’s strong track record of delivering value to its customers, communities, and shareholders, and is committed to best practices in corporate governance.

During the past five years, the Board has consistently refreshed its members and has successfully implemented key strategic initiatives. Nine out of 13 directors were first appointed in the last five years. The number of women represented on Duke Energy’s Board has doubled to four since 2017. The average tenure on the Board is 4.7 years, compared to 6.8 years in the peer set disclosed in Duke’s proxy. Each current Board member has served in senior leadership roles across multiple industries, and seven have deep operational experience in the utility industry.

Duke Energy will continue running the business in the best long-term interests of all shareholders and stakeholders, and not those of a single hedge fund focused only on the short-term and with a decidedly mixed track record in its other interventions in the utility sector. The management team has the full support of the Board, and the company will continue to focus on its long-term strategy of operational excellence, which has helped keep rates below the national average, and the execution of its five-year, $59 billion capital plan.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Non-GAAP financial information

This release references the long-term range of annual growth of 5% - 7% through 2025 off the midpoint of 2021 forecasted adjusted EPS guidance range of $5.15. The 5% - 7% annual growth rate increased from 4% - 6%. The forecasted adjusted EPS is a non-GAAP financial measure as it represents basic EPS available to Duke Energy Corporation common stockholders (GAAP reported EPS), adjusted for the per share impact of special items. Special items represent certain charges and credits, which management believes are not indicative of Duke Energy’s ongoing performance. Due to the forward-looking nature of this non-GAAP financial measure for future periods, information to reconcile it to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure is not available at this time, as management is unable to project all special items for future periods, such as legal settlements, the impact of regulatory orders or asset impairments.

Cautionary language concerning forward-looking statements

This document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by terms and phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will," "potential," "forecast," "target," "outlook," "guidance," and similar expressions. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. These risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Duke Energy’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than Duke Energy has described. Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Media contact: Neil Nissan
800.559.3853

Analysts contact: Jack Sullivan
980.373.3564

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eTransEnergy named by GM as a preferred provider for fleet electrification

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 17:13:00 GMT

eTransEnergy offers turnkey fleet electrification and infrastructure solutions for GM fleet and BrightDrop customers across North America.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – eTransEnergy, a Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) company, today was named by GM as a preferred provider to help GM fleet and BrightDrop customers transition to electric vehicles through the GM Ultium Charge 360 service.

Duke Energy introduced eTransEnergy in February 2021 as a wholly owned subsidiary created to offer energy transportation services to logistics, services, and last-mile delivery companies, as well as school districts and transit agencies.

“We are so pleased eTransEnergy was named by GM as a preferred provider for the electrification of its fleet,” said Greg Fields, eTransEnergy vice president. “This speaks to the strength of our program and the value of our service as a realistic solution for customers seeking to transform their fleets.”

Customers who choose eTransEnergy will benefit from comprehensive infrastructure planning, smart charging technology, on-site solar energy generation, battery backup options and other aspects of EV (electric vehicle) fleet management.

In addition to helping to reduce carbon emissions, EVs are quiet, offer great performance, and have low operating costs. eTransEnergy is designed to give customers one comprehensive source for transitioning their fleets to EVs from start to finish.

“GM’s Ultium Charge 360 service and our work with eTransEnergy will help ensure that fleets are able to customize their electrification plans,” said Alex Keros, lead architect, EV infrastructure, General Motors. “GM and eTransEnergy will work to provide a curated approach to charging solutions that will help accelerate EV adoption for an all-electric future.”

“Fleet electrification is an incredible way for fleet operators of all sizes to reduce their carbon emissions, and we look forward to helping organizations across the nation realize this and the many other benefits of fleet electrification,” Said Fields.

Duke Energy works continuously in all its service areas to strengthen and improve the electric grid. And now, with eTransEnergy services available across North America, Duke Energy will work with local utilities to support updates to the energy grid and other infrastructure as needed.

Fleet owners and operators interested in more information can visit the eTransEnergy website.

eTransEnergy

eTransEnergy, a wholly owned subsidiary of Duke Energy, provides unregulated services to assist school districts, transit services and companies across the country achieve their economic and sustainability goals as they transition to clean energy transportation options. More information about the company is available at eTransEnergy.com.

Media contact: Jennifer Sharpe
Phone: 704.616.2013
Email: jennifer.sharpe@duke-energy.com

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Duke Energy Foundation awards $734,000 in grants to support workforce development in Florida

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 13:53:00 GMT

24 workforce development programs receive awards.

Grants support training, education programs for energy sector jobs.

Funding supports efforts to boost training for minorities, women.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Duke Energy is investing $734,000 in strategic workforce development and education programs in Florida.

The Duke Energy Foundation grants will help job seekers and students who are members of underrepresented groups, such as women and minorities, to prepare for employment, primarily in the energy sector. This support will further bolster and expand the state's existing skilled workforce.

"These grants support vital programs and help develop a diverse workforce needed to strengthen our communities and economies today and in the future.” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president.

One of this year's recipients is the University of Florida and its Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. The university is receiving a $100,000 grant to create the Energy Sustainability, Technology and Resiliency Testing Hub and Certificate Program.

“We greatly appreciate Duke Energy’s generosity and foresight in making this gift,” said Dr. Jonathan Scheffe, associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at the University of Florida. “It will enable an exciting new pathway for students who want to build an engineering career in energy sustainability and resiliency. Students will learn about state-of-the-art, climate-friendly technologies that reflect the future needs of energy.”

The university plans to use the grant to provide scholarship opportunities for students who are earning a Sustainable and Resilient Energy Engineering Certificate at the University of Florida’s Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering.

All of the grants are administered through the Duke Energy Foundation, which is investing in workforce programs in the energy sector to help build the next generation workforce, as well as create access to training and job skills programs that meet community needs today.

Grant recipients, programs, awards

Statewide

Florida Chapter of American Association of Blacks in Energy – 10th Annual Youth Energy Academy, Black Energy Awareness Month initiative and scholarships ($28,000)

Greater Tampa Bay area

AmSkills Inc. – AmSkills High School Pre-apprenticeship Program ($23,000)
Citrus County Education Foundation – Foundation for Success Projects ($6,000)
Florida Polytechnic University Foundation – Transformer and Transformer Stations for new Cybersecurity Engineering Program ($25,000)
Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation – Elevating Engineering Achievement, Career Attainment and Minority Student Readiness in Pasco and Hernando Counties ($40,000)
Pinellas County Urban League Inc. – Duke Energy Lineworker Diversity Initiative ($15,000)
Project Prosper – A financial literacy program tailored to the unique needs of refugees and immigrants ($10,000)
St. Petersburg College Foundation – Electrical Lineworker Program ($50,000)
University of South Florida Foundation – Call Me MISTER initiative aimed at increasing the number of male teachers of color in local elementary schools ($50,000)
South Florida State College Hardee Campus – Increasing Training Opportunities for Electrical Lineworker Students by Expanding Training Capacity and Improving Safety ($30,000)

Greater Orlando area

Adult Literacy League Inc. – Creating a Stronger Workforce Through Improved Literacy Program ($10,000)
Boys and Girls Club of Central Florida – Workforce Alliance for Youth ($20,000)
Boys and Girls Club of Volusia County – Junior Staff Program ($9,960)
Central Florida Urban League – Workforce Upskilling and Reskilling Program ($10,000)
Education Foundation of Osceola County – Career Pipeline ($20,000)
Foundation for Seminole State College – Workforce Jumpstart 2021 ($25,000)
Hispanic Heritage Fund of Metro Orlando – Engineering scholarships and student programming ($24,000)
Lake-Sumter State College Foundation – Drone, Relay Tech and Lineworker Training Program for Energy Sector Workers ($75,000)
University of Central Florida – Support for College of Engineering and Computer Science Projects: Girls Excelling in Math and Science mentorship program, DE&I program and Senior Design Projects ($75,000)
Valencia College Foundation – Scholarships and Outreach for the Valencia College, Accelerated Skills Training, Electric Powerline Technician Program ($50,000)

Greater Tallahassee / Gainesville area

Boys and Girls Club of North Central Florida – BGC Energy Drone Program ($22,500)
Career Source North Florida – Power and Energy Program ($10,000)
Education Foundation of Gulf County – Science STEMulation ($5,000)
University of Florida – Energy Sustainability, Technology and Resiliency Testing Hub and Certificate Program ($100,000)

Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information about the Foundation can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Allison Barker
Media line: 800.559.3853
Cell: 304.553.9104
Twitter: @DE_AllisonB

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Duke Energy to announce second-quarter 2021 financial results on Aug. 5

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 14:12:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy will announce its second-quarter 2021 financial results at 7 a.m. ET on Thursday, Aug. 5 in a news release to be posted on the company's website at duke-energy.com/investors.

An earnings conference call for analysts is scheduled from 10 to 11 a.m. ET that day to discuss second-quarter 2021 financial results and other business and financial updates.

The conference call will be hosted by Lynn Good, chair, president and chief executive officer, and Steve Young, executive vice president and chief financial officer.

The call can be accessed via the investors' section (duke-energy.com/investors) of Duke Energy’s website or by dialing 800-458-4121 in the U.S. or 323-794-2093 outside the U.S. The confirmation code is 3383817. Please call in 10 to 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.

A replay of the conference call will be available until 1 p.m. ET, Aug. 15, 2021 by calling 888-203-1112 in the U.S. or 719-457-0820 outside the U.S. and using the code 3383817. An audio replay and transcript will also be available by accessing the investors' section of the company’s website.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Meredith Archie
800.559.3853

Analysts contact: Jack Sullivan
980.373.3564

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Duke Energy announces dividend payments to shareholders

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 15:58:00 GMT

Company increases quarterly dividend payment for common stock.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) today declared a quarterly cash dividend on its common stock of $0.985, an increase of $0.02 per share. This dividend is payable on Sept. 16, 2021 to shareholders of record at the close of business Aug. 13, 2021.

The company also declared a quarterly cash dividend on its Series A preferred stock of $359.375 per share, payable on Sept. 16, 2021 to shareholders of record at the close of business Aug. 13, 2021. This is equivalent to $0.359375 per depositary share.

In addition, the company declared a semi-annual cash dividend on its Series B preferred stock of $24.375 per share, payable on Sept. 16, 2021 to shareholders of record at the close of business Aug. 13, 2021.

Duke Energy has paid a cash dividend on its common stock for 95 consecutive years.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Meredith Archie
800.559.3853

Analysts contact: Jack Sullivan
980.373.3564

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Duke Energy preparation made for rapid response following Tropical Storm Elsa

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 19:54:00 GMT

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – As Tropical Storm Elsa made landfall Wednesday along Florida’s northwest coast, Duke Energy crews quickly responded to restore damage and power outages.

Duke Energy strategically staged about 3,000 of its crew members, contractors, tree specialists and other personnel from Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio and the Carolinas in advance of the storm. With employees in multiple states, Duke Energy is able to position company resources from other areas not in a storm’s path when severe weather strikes.

“We were ready for the worst-case scenario that could happen when our customers are in the path of a hurricane or tropical storm,” said Todd Fountain, Duke Energy Florida’s storm director. “We are happy that this time the conditions did not result in widespread outages. Still, we want those customers whose service was affected to know we’re working hard for them.”

At the peak of the storm on July 7 at 5 a.m., there were 7,345 customer outages. Crews have also restored more than 28,000 storm outages.

Duke Energy has released employees from the Carolinas who traveled to Florida in advance of the storm so they are available to assist with Elsa-related outages in their home states. Employees from Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio will be released later today and prepare to travel home tomorrow.

Safety reminders after the storm

Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized, as well as trees, limbs or anything in contact with lines.
Report all power line hazards using the following phone number: 800.228.8485.
If a power line falls across a car that you're in, stay in the car. If you MUST get out of the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.
Never bring a generator indoors. Generators should be operated only outdoors, and only in well-ventilated areas. Manufacturer instructions should be followed.
If rising water threatens your home – or if you evacuate your home – turn off your power at the circuit breaker panel or fuse box.
Electric current passes easily through water, so stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires. Don't drive over – and don't stand near – downed power lines. Downed lines will be hard to see in the rain and can potentially be hidden in standing water. If you encounter large pools of standing water, stop, back up and choose another path.

Outage reporting

Customers who experience an outage can report it by:

Visiting duke-energy.com on a desktop computer or mobile device.
Texting OUT to 57801 (standard text and data charges may apply).
Calling the automated outage-reporting system at 800.228.8485.
For storm or power restoration updates, follow Duke Energy on Twitter (@DukeEnergy) and Facebook (Duke Energy).

New technology investments

In addition to year-round storm preparation, Duke Energy also is investing in grid modernization. In 2020, smart, self-healing technology helped to avoid nearly 290,000 extended customer outages in Florida, saving around 18,900,000 outage minutes. This technology serves approximately 45% of our Florida customers and we expect that smart-thinking technologies will serve 80% or more of customers when fully deployed by 2027.

Crews also trim trees and inspect power lines and poles regularly. In many areas, they are replacing older poles with newer, stronger poles: wood to steel and concrete and lattice towers to monopoles.

Duke Energy Florida

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media Contact: Allison Barker
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
Cell: 304.553.9104
Twitter: @DE_AllisonB

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Duke Energy crews are ready to respond to impacts of Tropical Storm Elsa in Florida

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 19:58:00 GMT

Company has thousands of personnel ready to respond to power outages.

Extensive damage could result in extended outages.

Everyone should focus on safety as the storm approaches.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – With Tropical Storm Elsa’s imminent landfall expected along Florida’s west coast, Duke Energy is prepared and urging customers to immediately take steps to be safe.

"At Duke Energy, safety always comes first. We actively care about the safety of our customers, crews and employees during and after every storm event," said Todd Fountain, Duke Energy’s Florida storm director. "We're trained and prepared, and we want to ensure our customers are safe and prepared for any impacts from the storm.”

Duke Energy operates in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio and the Carolinas, which gives the company the ability to pull company resources from other areas not affected by the storm’s path when severe weather strikes.

The company’s storm center has been activated and about 3,000 Duke Energy crew members, contractors, tree specialists and other personnel are being staged from Pinellas County to north Florida. Duke Energy has brought in additional line workers and support personnel from its service territories in the Carolinas, Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio. Placing crews near areas that will likely be affected by this system allows for the quickest and safest response after a storm passes through.

The company is closely monitoring the weather system, which has the potential to strengthen into a hurricane and is likely to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds and localized flooding to portions of the Duke Energy Florida service area.

In addition to making safety a priority, customers should also prepare for power outages. Despite extensive system improvements and rigorous tree trimming, strong winds, wind-blown debris and flooding can cause power outages. When outages occur, Duke Energy is committed to restoring power as safely and quickly as possible, while keeping customers informed throughout the process.

Duke Energy recommends customers double-check their readiness for possible power outages and offers the following tips to help you and your family stay safe if the power goes out:

Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized, as well as trees, limbs or anything in contact with lines.

If a power line falls across a car that you're in, stay in the car. If you MUST get out of the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.

Create (or update) an emergency supply kit to save valuable time later. The kit should include everything an individual or family would need for at least two weeks, especially medicines and other supplies that might be hard to find after a storm strikes.
Keep a portable radio or TV or a NOAA weather radio on hand to monitor weather forecasts and important information from state and local officials.
Charge cellphones, computers and other electronic devices in advance of the storm to stay connected to important safety and response information. Consider purchasing portable chargers and make sure they are fully charged as well.
Maintain a plan to move family members – especially those with special needs – to a safe, alternative location in case an extended power outage occurs, or evacuation is required.

Customers should stay tuned to local news for the latest advisories from the National Weather Service and National Hurricane Center (NHC), as well as state and local emergency management officials.

For a hurricane kit checklist and important safety information, visit www.ready.gov. In addition, tips on what to do before, during and after a storm can be found in the Storm Center at duke-energy.com/safety-and-preparedness/storm-safety. A checklist serves as a helpful guide, but it's critical before, during and after a storm to follow the instructions and warnings of emergency management officials in your area.

High-water safety reminders

People who live along lakes and rivers, and in other low-lying areas or areas prone to flooding, should pay close attention to local emergency management officials, National Weather Service and media for changing weather conditions and rising lake and river levels.

High-water conditions can create navigational hazards, and the public should use caution and adhere to the advice of local emergency management officials before going on area lakes or rivers.

If rising water threatens your home – or if you evacuate your home – turn off your power at the circuit breaker panel or fuse box.

Electric current passes easily through water, so stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires. Don't drive over – and don't stand near – downed power lines.

Downed lines will be hard to see in the rain and can potentially be hidden in standing water. If you encounter large pools of standing water, stop, back up and choose another path.

If your home or business is flooded, Duke Energy cannot reconnect power until the electrical system has been inspected by a licensed electrician. If there is damage, an electrician will need to make repairs and obtain verification from your local building inspection authority before power can be restored.

Power restoration process

Duke Energy focuses on restoring power in a sequence that enables power restoration to public health and safety facilities and to the greatest number of customers as safely and quickly as possible. Click here for information on how Duke Energy restores power.

Customers who experience a power outage can report it the following ways:

Visit duke-energy.com on a desktop computer or mobile device.
Use the Duke Energy mobile app (download the Duke Energy app on your smartphone via Apple Store or Google Play).

Text OUT to 57801 (standard text and data charges may apply).
Call Duke Energy’s automated outage-reporting system: 800.228.8485.

Duke Energy Florida

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of the largest energy holding companies in the U.S. It employs 30,000 people and has an electric generating capacity of 51,000 megawatts through its regulated utilities, and 3,000 megawatts through its nonregulated Duke Energy Renewables unit.

Duke Energy is transforming its customers’ experience, modernizing the energy grid, generating cleaner energy and expanding natural gas infrastructure to create a smarter energy future for the people and communities it serves. The Electric Utilities and Infrastructure unit’s regulated utilities serve approximately 7.7 million retail electric customers in six states – North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. The Gas Utilities and Infrastructure unit distributes natural gas to more than 1.6 million customers in five states – North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. The Duke Energy Renewables unit operates wind and solar generation facilities across the U.S., as well as energy storage and microgrid projects.

Duke Energy was named to Fortune’s 2020 “World’s Most Admired Companies” list, and Forbes’ 2019 “America’s Best Employers” list. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos, videos and other materials. Duke Energy’s illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Media Contact: Allison Barker
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
Cell: 304.553.9104
Twitter: @DE_AllisonB

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Duke Energy Florida urges customers to prepare for Tropical Storm Elsa

Sun, 04 Jul 2021 13:40:00 GMT

Duke Energy meteorologists continue to monitor storm.

Company making preparations.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Duke Energy Florida is preparing for Tropical Storm Elsa and is urging customers to prepare as well.

Company meteorologists are tracking the storm and crews are preparing to safely and quickly respond if the storm impacts Duke Energy Florida’s service area.

Tropical Storm Elsa could potentially strengthen and bring heavy rainfall, strong winds and localized flooding to portions of the company’s service area.

Placing crews near areas that will likely be affected by this system will allow for the most rapid response after a storm passes through.

“Duke Energy is committed to restoring power as safely and quickly as possible, while keeping customers informed throughout the process,” said Melissa Seixas Duke Energy Florida state president. “We prepare year-round and continuously modernize the grid to keep the lights on, but tropical weather events like Elsa bring wind-blown debris and flooding that can cause outages. We are prepared for those conditions and encourage our customers to continue monitoring the storm.”

In advance of the storm, Duke Energy will move power utility crews and resources so they are staged in areas and ready to help restore power as soon as it is safe to do so.

In addition, line technicians and workers are checking equipment, supplies and inventories to ensure adequate materials are available to make repairs and restore power outages.

Restoring power after a storm can be extremely challenging for utility repair crews, as travel and work conditions can be impacted by high winds, downed trees and flooding – making repair work lengthy and difficult.

Before bulk power can be restored, crews first must assess the extent of damage – which can take 24 hours or more – to determine which crews, equipment and supplies will be needed before repairs can begin.

Strengthening the grid

Safety information

The safety of our customers and communities is important. Duke Energy encourages customers to have a plan in place to respond to an extended power outage after a hurricane or other severe weather. Below are some tips:

Before the storm

Create (or update) an emergency supply kit to save valuable time later. The kit should include everything an individual or family would need for at least two weeks, especially medicines, water, non-perishable foods and other supplies that might be hard to find after a storm hits. Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has relaxed some of its guidance for vaccinated individuals, an emergency kit should still include items that can help protect you and others from COVID-19, such as hand sanitizer, bar or liquid soap, and face coverings aligned with CDC guidance.

Keep a portable radio or TV or a NOAA weather radio on hand to monitor weather forecasts and important information from state and local officials.

Charge cellphones, computers and other electronic devices in advance of storms to stay connected to important safety and response information. Consider purchasing portable chargers and make sure they are fully charged as well.

Maintain a plan to move family members – especially those with special needs – to a safe, alternative location in case an extended power outage occurs or evacuation is required.

Pet owners should arrange to stay at evacuation shelters that accept pets; friends' or family members' homes; or pet-friendly hotels.

After the storm

Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized, as well as trees, limbs or anything in contact with lines.

If a power line falls across a car that you are in, stay in the car. If you MUST get out of the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.

If you need to go to a disaster shelter, follow CDC recommendations for staying safe and healthy in a public disaster shelter during the COVID-19 pandemic.

For more tips on how to prepare for storm season, and how Duke Energy can help, please visit duke-energy.com/StormTips.

Outage reporting

While residents of coastal areas are most at risk of being affected by hurricanes, such storms also can bring damaging high winds and rain inland. Before the storm hits, customers should contact us to make sure their contact information is up to date and their communication preferences are noted, so they receive proactive outreach on the status on a power outage they may experience. Customers who experience an outage during a storm can report it the following ways:

Visit duke-energy.com on a desktop computer or mobile device.

Use the Duke Energy mobile app – Download the Duke Energy App from a smartphone via Apple Store or Google Play.

Text OUT to 57801 (standard text and data charges may apply).

Call the automated outage-reporting system, at: 800.228.8485
Customer service specialists will be available to manage customer calls should the need arise, with more than 1,500 additional corporate responders from across all Duke Energy jurisdictions available to assist as needed.

Duke Energy Florida

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Ana Gibbs

Cell: 813.928.7263

Media line: 800.559.3853

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Duke Energy Florida proposal would expand low-income programs

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 19:34:00 GMT

Limits disconnects for nonpayment during hurricanes, extreme heat.

Additional bill pay assistance for qualified customers.

Assistance kits to provide meaningful energy efficiency savings.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Duke Energy Florida today filed a proposal with the Florida Public Service Commission to provide additional assistance to customers through the company’s low-income programs.

“Our customers remain our top priority. Duke Energy Florida is committed to assisting all of our customers, especially those who are most vulnerable,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “We want customers to know we are here when they need us most.”

These proposed modifications continue to demonstrate the company’s leadership and commitment to implement innovative energy efficiency and demand-side management programs targeted at low-income customers.

The modifications specifically recognize the economic hardships many customers are experiencing due to COVID and the company’s desire to help its customers reduce their energy bills, as well as provide bill payment assistance.

The filing was part of an agreement developed with customer representatives of several consumer groups, including the CLEO Institute, Vote Solar and the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy.

Duke Energy Florida’s filing will further expand several existing programs that assist lower-income customers.

“Energy justice and economic justice are inextricably intertwined. The measures in this agreement will provide financial support to those most impacted by both the COVID crisis and the climate crisis,” said Yoca Arditi-Rocha, Executive Director of the CLEO Institute. “While there is still much ahead to be done, we’re extremely encouraged by the steps taken to ease the energy burden for Florida’s most vulnerable communities.”

Here is a summary of today’s filing:

Duke Energy Florida will increase the Neighborhood Energy Savers targeted customers by 5%.
The company is also making temporary changes to the approved Florida Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act (FEECA) programs for lower-income customers at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines and who have arrearages that are greater than 60 days. In order to provide almost immediate relief to those customers, all eligible customers enrolled in the company’s approved Residential Demand Response Program will receive a $30 “assistance incentive” in the form of a gift card that can be used to help pay their energy bill.
The second modification to FEECA programs will offer 20,000 assistance kits to provide meaningful energy efficiency savings to customers in need.

“Power disconnects — particularly in areas of Florida most impacted by rising temperatures due to climate change — can be a matter of life or death,” says Katie Chiles Ottenweller, Vote Solar’s Southeast Director. “Nobody should be put in harm’s way because of an unaffordable utility bill. We thank Duke Energy for putting these protections in place and hope other utilities will do the same.”

Complete filing here.

Duke Energy Florida

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Ana Gibbs
Cell: 813.928.7263
Media line: 800.559.3853

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Florida’s Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority joins Duke Energy to unveil 4 new electric depot bus chargers

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 19:24:00 GMT

2 more electric buses ordered for 2022.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) today unveiled four new electric depot bus chargers at the bus lot at PSTA headquarters.

The chargers were paid for by a federal grant and nearly $160,000 from Duke Energy.

“As we continue to be a more sustainable organization, it is vital that we work with businesses, like Duke Energy, to create a ‘greener’ future. We are excited that Duke Energy shares the same vision that PSTA does,” said PTSA CEO Brad Miller. “More chargers mean we can handle more electric buses and keep more of them on the road at the same time.’’

The chargers are the first Duke Energy has helped fund at a transit bus depot in Florida as part of its efforts to expand access to electric vehicle charging stations in the state. Data collected from the PSTA chargers will be used for learning purposes about electric transit bus usage.

In addition to helping fund the four new DC fast chargers for bus use, Duke Energy also has invested about $100,000 to install two Level 2 chargers for PSTA employee use through its Park & Plug program. When Duke Energy launched Park & Plug as a pilot in 2018, the company pledged to install 530 stations across Florida. Today, about 600 charging stations have been installed at local businesses, public locations, apartment and condo complexes and workplaces.

“Duke Energy’s investment in regional charging infrastructure is one example of how we’re committed to providing smarter, cleaner energy alternatives for our customers,” said Sharon Arroyo, Duke Energy Florida vice president of government and community relations. “We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with PSTA and other customers to expand electric vehicle charging and help them meet their sustainability goals.”

With the four new plug-in charges, PSTA now has a total of six. The chargers take about four hours to fully recharge an electric bus.

PSTA also is moving forward with ordering two more 40-foot electric buses, which should be delivered in 2022. With their delivery, PSTA will have a total of eight electric buses – the most in the region.

Each electric bus is powered by a rechargeable, environmentally friendly battery and averages 180 miles or five hours of operating time on a single charge. PSTA will save about $20,000 a year in diesel fuel costs with each electric bus, or $240,000 over 12 years.

“PSTA is continuously looking for ways to be innovative and sustainable,’’ Miller said. “Sustainability is what drives us, and that’s the word that should come to mind when residents see our new electric buses.’’

This latest investment in chargers and electric buses reflects PSTA’s continuing commitment to viewing every project and service through a sustainability lens. It also demonstrates how the agency keeps its focus on its triple bottom line: People, place and price.

Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority

The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority is the public transit provider for Pinellas County, providing more than 12.1 million rides per year. PSTA operates 40 bus and trolley routes with a fleet of 210 vehicles. More information is available at www.psta.net.

Duke Energy Florida

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America’s largest energy holding companies.

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos, videos and other materials. Duke Energy’s illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Media contacts:

Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority
Stephanie Rank
Office: 727-540-1853
Cell: 727-249-6542
Email: Srank@psta.net

Duke Energy
Allison Barker
Media line: 800-559-3853
Email: allison.barker@duke-energy.com

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Duke Energy advances local workforce in Ohio, Kentucky with $300,000 in grants to help job seekers, students prepare for employment

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 14:10:00 GMT

14 workforce development programs receive grants.

Grants support access to training, job skill programs for future workforce.

CINCINNATI – Duke Energy is awarding $300,000 in grants to 14 workforce development and education programs in Ohio and Kentucky to help job seekers and students prepare for employment, primarily in the energy sector.

The grants will be used to support education and training programs to prepare future employees with the necessary skills to enter the workforce.

“The committed organizations receiving these grants are helping to both develop our future workforce and position those currently employed to advance to stable, solid-earning jobs,” said Amy Spiller, president, Duke Energy Ohio and Kentucky. “Equipping individuals with the skills that many employers need enables sustained employment, which is vital for our region to thrive.”

As the energy industry continues its exciting transformation, the Duke Energy Foundation is investing in workforce programs in the energy sector to help build the next generation workforce as well as create access to training and job skills programs the community needs today.

One of this year’s recipients is Butler Technology and Career Development Center, which is receiving a $100,000 grant to begin a utility pipeline installer program to train 24 students the first year.

“The Duke Energy Foundation has previously supported our efforts in creating a mobile learning lab and have been a long-standing partner of Butler Tech and our Associate School Districts throughout the region on various STEM projects,” shared Jon Graft, Butler Tech Superintendent/CEO. “We look forward to developing a program to meet the needs of Duke Energy and our business community in technology and the energy field.”

In Kentucky, Gateway Community College will receive a grant to expand its Utility Lineworker Certificate Program.

“At Gateway, we are grateful to partner with Duke Energy on our lineman apprentice program,” said Dr. Fernando Figueroa, Gateway president. “As our economy shifts to recovery, this training program plays a pivotal role in meeting the workforce development needs of our region.”

To see what the lineworker certificate training program at Gateway looks like, click here.

Grant recipients, programs, awards

Ohio

ArtWorks, Art Opportunities Youth Apprentice Employment Program, will create jobs for at least 150 diverse and underserved Youth Apprentices who will work on 30 public art projects across the Greater Cincinnati Region ($10,000).
Butler Technology and Career Development Center, using grant to launch the Utility Pipeline Installer Training Program ($100,000).
Chatfield College Career Coaching Program, funds will assist in implementing new digital tools to showcase student skills plus access to internships and employment ($5,000).
Cincinnati Recreation Foundation, Youth to Work Program, grant will help to provide life skills to students ($10,000).
College@Elm Workforce Development & Innovation Center, funds will help establish the center that is being created in conjunction with Miami University and the city of Oxford ($10,000).
CityLink Center Cornerstone Construction Training Program, hands-on training that equips individuals to safely and confidently enter the construction workforce and accelerate their advancement ($10,000).
Easterseals TriState LLC ESGC Military & Veteran Services, using grant to support the growing needs of local veterans with emergency intervention, employment and education services ($20,000).
Freestore Foodbank LIFT the TriState, grant will be used to match unemployed and under-employed individuals with promising careers in the logistics industry ($10,000).
The Christ Hospital Health Network NEST Program, Nourishing Employee Strengths & Talents, a program developed to address and minimize the economic and career disadvantages of Cincinnati workers ($10,000).
Urban League of Greater Cincinnati, grant to be used for the Accelerated Customer Service & Call Center Education (ACE) program, to help train workers with customer call center skills ($10,000).

Kentucky

Gateway Community and Technical College, grant will be used to increase the career readiness of students enrolled in the Utility Lineworker Program by incorporating more hands-on learning experiences ($25,000).
Learning Grove AKA Children’s Inc., NaviGo Scholars Program and NKY College & Career Connector Program, providing hands-on training, networking, and soft skills to high school students ($35,000).
Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Credential Literacy and Resource Access for Workforce Development, will assist GROW NKY Program ($30,000).
Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission, Pathways Out of Poverty program, prepares youth with skills for entry-level or manufacturing jobs, as well as adults to sustain meaningful employment through skills training ($15,000).

Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50% carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Sally Thelen
Office: 513.287.2432
Media line: 800.559.3853

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20,000 spotted seatrout released in Florida’s Pine Island Park

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 16:49:00 GMT

Duke Energy’s Mariculture Center provides juvenile fish for release.

Seatrout among millions of fish raised at the center to support Gulf.

BROOKSVILLE, Fla. – In collaboration with Hernando County, Duke Energy, Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) Florida and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) have released about 20,000 hatchery-reared spotted seatrout at Alfred McKethan/Pine Island Park.

“Our ongoing efforts with the Duke Energy Mariculture Center are helping repopulate spotted seatrout in the Gulf ecosystem,” CCA Florida Executive Director Brian Gorski said. “Preserving and protecting marine environments for future generations is our mutual responsibility, and this restocking initiative will help revitalize one of Florida’s most popular inshore species.”

The juvenile spotted seatrout are approximately 4 inches in length. The addition of these fish at Pine Island Park will allow the existing ecosystem to thrive and create more abundant recreational fishing opportunities. Spotted seatrout do not tend to travel far from where they are introduced, and many are likely to remain in the area.

The spotted seatrout were provided by the Duke Energy Mariculture Center in Crystal River, a certified aquaculture facility and multispecies hatchery that grows and releases redfish and spotted seatrout into the Gulf of Mexico.

“Duke Energy is proud of our continued collaboration with the Coastal Conservation Association of Florida. Together, we have successfully managed countless fish release projects throughout the state,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “We are committed to helping protect and responsibly manage Florida’s natural resources and are dedicated to helping support the vitality of our communities.”

Since opening in 1991, the Duke Energy Mariculture Center has cultivated and released more than 4.1 million fish and crustaceans. In addition, the center grows a variety of submerged aquatic vegetation, such as eelgrass, for lake and spring restoration and saltwater marsh vegetation, such as mangroves, for living shoreline projects to support the overall health of Florida’s fisheries and marine habitats. It is one of the most successful marine-stocking programs in Florida focused on environmental stewardship and conservation.

“We are thrilled to partner with Duke Energy, CCA Florida and FWC to release these fish into our ecosystem here in Hernando County,” said Hernando County Administrator Jeff Rogers. “This is an excellent opportunity to not only enhance the existing marine environment but to also allow for better recreational fishing opportunities at this location for our residents and visitors.”

Duke Energy Florida

Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns a diverse generation mix of natural gas, coal and renewables, providing about 10,200 megawatts of owned electric capacity to approximately 1.9 million customers in a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of the largest energy holding companies in the U.S. It employs 30,000 people and has an electric generating capacity of 51,000 megawatts through its regulated utilities, and 3,000 megawatts through its nonregulated Duke Energy Renewables unit. The company’s regulated utilities serve approximately 7.7 million retail electric customers in six states, including Florida.

Coastal Conservation Association Florida

The Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) was founded in 1977 after drastic commercial overfishing along the Texas coast decimated redfish and speckled trout populations. One of 19 state chapters, CCA Florida became the fifth state chapter in 1985. A 501(c)3 nonprofit, the purpose of CCA is to advise and educate the public on conservation of marine resources. Through habitat restoration projects, water quality initiatives and fisheries advocacy, CCA Florida works with its over 18,000 members including recreational anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to conserve and enhance marine resources and coastal environments.Duke Energy

Duke Energy Contact: Allison Barker
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_AllisonB

Hernando County Contact: Kasey Hyde
Office: 352.540.6426; Cell: 352.277.1069
KKupcik@HernandoCounty.us

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Duke Energy begins construction on largest solar plant in Surry County, N.C.

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 12:06:00 GMT

Stony Knoll project continues company’s solar expansion in N.C.

Joins more than 40 other Duke Energy solar plants in the state

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy continues to expand solar power in North Carolina with construction starting on its 22.6-megawatt (MW) Stony Knoll Solar power plant. Once completed, it will be the largest solar plant in Surry County.

The project will be owned and operated by Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions.* The project was selected as part of the competitive bidding process established by 2017’s solar legislation in North Carolina.

The solar plant will contain 76,600 Trina Solar bifacial modules with single-axis tracking. The plant will be located on 195 acres in Dobson, N.C. – near Rockford Road. The facility will power the equivalent of 5,000 homes. It is targeting commercial operation by the end of 2021.

“Duke Energy is bringing more carbon-free, renewable energy to customers in North Carolina. We’re pleased to add Surry County to our ever-growing list of solar locations as we significantly reduce carbon emissions on our path to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050,” said Stephen De May, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president.

Under North Carolina’s Competitive Procurement for Renewable Energy, proposed projects must be built where there is a need for energy capacity on the Duke Energy system in North Carolina or South Carolina. The bids can come from any company, including Duke Energy, and can be in the form of power purchase agreements (PPA), utility self-developed facilities or utility asset acquisitions.

“We’re pleased to continue to build upon the renewable energy resources in the state. The Stony Knoll solar project marks the third facility that we have announced in North Carolina this year and demonstrates our continued commitment to increasing clean energy generation in the state,” said Chris Fallon, president of Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions.

During peak construction, Stony Knoll Solar will create about 70 jobs. Along with indirect economic benefits that accompany solar project development, such as increased local spending in the service and construction industries, Stony Knoll Solar will also have a positive economic impact on the local community by providing local tax revenues to the county and local school districts, as well as meaningful payments to the participating landowners.

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions also supports the communities where its facilities and team members are based through the efforts of the Duke Energy Foundation. In January, the company awarded $10,000 to Copeland Elementary School in Dobson to fund the purchase of Chromebooks for students.

The facility’s design, procurement of inverters, balance of plant systems and construction of the project will be performed by Swinerton Renewable Energy. The energy generated by Stony Knoll will be delivered through a 20-year power purchase agreement with Duke Energy Carolinas.

A leader in renewable energy

Duke Energy maintains more than 3,700 MW of solar power on its energy grid in North Carolina, which could power about 700,000 homes and businesses at peak output. The company also operates more than 40 solar facilities in the state. North Carolina currently ranks No. 3 in the nation for overall solar power. With nuclear, hydro and renewable energy, more than half of North Carolina’s energy mix is carbon-free.

As one of the nation’s top renewable energy providers, Duke Energy plans to double its enterprisewide renewable portfolio from 8 gigawatts (GW) of capacity to 16 GW by the end of 2025.

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions is a nonregulated commercial brand of Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) – a Fortune 150 company and one of the largest energy holding companies in the U.S. – headquartered in Charlotte, N.C.

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions is a leader in sustainable energy, helping large enterprises reduce power costs, lower emissions and increase resiliency. The team provides wind, solar, resilient backup power and managed energy services to over 1,000 projects across the U.S., with a total electric capacity of more than 5,100 megawatts of nonregulated renewable energy. Visit Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions and follow on LinkedIn and YouTube for more information.

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50% carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos, videos and other materials. Duke Energy’s illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements.

This document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by terms and phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will," "potential," "forecast," "target," "outlook," "guidance," and similar expressions. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. These risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Duke Energy’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than Duke Energy has described. Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

* Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions is a non-regulated commercial brand of Duke Energy Corporation, which includes the following subsidiaries of Duke Energy Corporation that are registered to transact business in various states and may be branded as Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions for marketing purposes: Duke Energy One, Inc.; Duke Energy Commercial Enterprises, Inc.; Duke Energy Renewables, Inc.; Duke Energy Renewables Commercial, LLC; Duke Energy Renewable Services, LLC.; Duke Energy Renewables Storage, LLC; Duke Energy Renewables Wind, LLC.; Duke Energy Renewables Solar, LLC.; and REC Solar Commercial Corporation.

Contact: Randy Wheeless
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_RandyW

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Duke Energy seeks subsequent license renewal for Oconee Nuclear Station

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 11:53:00 GMT

Oconee is Duke Energy’s largest nuclear station, with three generating units that produce more than 2,500 megawatts of carbon-free electricity.

Company intends to renew the operating licenses of all 11 reactors it operates for an additional 20 years to support its carbon reduction goals.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy has filed an application with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to renew Oconee Nuclear Station’s operating licenses for an additional 20 years.

Oconee, located on Lake Keowee in Seneca, S.C., is Duke Energy’s largest nuclear station, with three generating units that produce more than 2,500 megawatts of carbon-free electricity. Oconee’s operating licenses remain current through the early 2030s; the subsequent, or second, license renewal would extend the operating licenses to 2053 and 2054.

“Oconee Nuclear Station has provided safe, reliable, carbon-free energy to customers and our communities for nearly 50 years,” said Oconee Nuclear Station Site Vice President Steve Snider. “Renewing these operating licenses is a significant step toward achieving Duke Energy’s aggressive carbon reduction goals, which cannot be achieved without nuclear power.”

This is the first Duke Energy nuclear station application submitted to the NRC for subsequent license renewal; the company announced in 2019 it will seek to renew the operating licenses of the 11 reactors it operates at six sites for an additional 20 years.

“A diverse, increasingly carbon-free energy mix is important for customers. And, nuclear energy is a proven part of that mix having provided our Carolinas customers with clean, safe and reliable electricity for decades,” said Kelvin Henderson, Duke Energy chief nuclear officer. “Our nuclear stations remain economic drivers for their communities, providing thousands of well-paying jobs, significant tax revenues, partnership opportunities and other benefits.”

Critical component in reducing carbon emissions

The Duke Energy nuclear fleet plays an important role in lowering the company’s and nation’s carbon emissions. In 2020, operation of the nuclear fleet avoided the release of nearly 50 million tons of carbon dioxide (if that same generation was produced with coal, oil and natural gas) and provided 83% of the company’s carbon-free generation. The company has set aggressive carbon reduction goals of at least 50% by 2030 and net-zero by 2050 from electricity generation, and keeping its nuclear fleet operating is key to achieving these goals.

Technology upgrades

Just as home and business owners maintain their investments through improvements and regular maintenance, Duke Energy continuously implements new technology and other upgrades at its nuclear plants. These include replacing and/or upgrading turbines, steam generators, motors, control systems, pumps and more.

Significant economic benefits

Nuclear power plants create more jobs than any other type of energy generation facility. Duke Energy employs nearly 5,000 workers in its nuclear group, with additional contract workers supporting refueling outages and major project work. In addition, nuclear employees support the communities where they live and work by donating time and expertise through volunteer partnerships.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50% carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Forward-looking information

This document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions and can often be identified by terms and phrases that include “anticipate,” “believe,” “intend,” “estimate,” “expect,” “continue,” “should,” “could,” “may,” “plan,” “project,” “predict,” “will,” “potential,” “forecast,” “target,” “guidance,” “outlook” or other similar terminology. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. For details on the uncertainties that may cause our actual future results to be materially different than those expressed in our forward-looking statements, see our 2020 Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC and available at the SEC’s website at sec.gov. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than described. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Contact: Rita Sipe
24-Hour: 800.559.3853

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Duke Energy’s $50,000 donation helps revitalize community park in Richland, Texas

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 17:31:00 GMT

Grant used to fund construction of new playground, park benches

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Duke Energy Foundation has given the city of Richland, Texas, in Navarro County, a $50,000 Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions grant to support the revitalization of Richland Community Park.

The grant was used to replace existing playground equipment with a new playscape and park benches and enhance landscaping around the new equipment.

“Supporting the communities where we work and operate is a cornerstone of our mission and values,” said Chris Fallon, president of Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions. “We’re proud to be a part of the community and partner on enhancing resources that residents can continue to benefit from and enjoy.”

"The City of Richland welcomes Duke Energy to the community and thanks them for their generous donation. We look forward to the future and a long-lasting partnership," said Richland Mayor, Kenneth Guard.

To commemorate the reopening of Richland Community Park, the city held a community event June 12.

Earlier this month, Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions* announced the construction of the 250-megawatt Pisgah Ridge Solar site, also in Navarro County, which will generate enough energy to power approximately 63,000 homes in the state.

Currently, the company operates nearly 1,500 MW of wind, 500 MW of solar and a 36-MW battery storage facility in Texas.

The grant was made possible through the Duke Energy Foundation, which provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars.

More information about the Foundation can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

About Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos, videos and other materials. Duke Energy’s illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

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* Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions is a non-regulated commercial brand of Duke Energy Corporation, which includes the following subsidiaries of Duke Energy Corporation that are registered to transact business in various states and may be branded as Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions for marketing purposes: Duke Energy One, Inc.; Duke Energy Commercial Enterprises, Inc.; Duke Energy Renewables, Inc.; Duke Energy Renewables Commercial, LLC.; Duke Energy Renewable Services, LLC.; Duke Energy Renewables Storage, LLC.; Duke Energy Renewables Wind, LLC.; Duke Energy Renewables Solar, LLC.; and REC Solar Commercial Corporation.

Media contact: Jennifer Garber
24-hour: 800.559.3853

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Easy summer energy-efficiency tips to keep your bill cool

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 15:45:00 GMT

Duke Energy offers low- to no-cost do-it-yourself tips, projects to prepare for summer’s heat, lower your energy usage.

Energy-saving programs, tools, guidance available to track, manage energy use and bills during summer’s high temperatures.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Summer means rising temperatures, and Duke Energy is helping customers save with easy, low- to no-cost do-it-yourself projects and tips to prepare for summer’s heat.

“We typically see energy use spike in the summer since air conditioning is one of the biggest energy users in your home,” said Barbara Higgins, Duke Energy senior vice president and chief customer officer. “We offer free programs, tools and tips to help customers track and manage their energy use, so they can take control and avoid billing surprises.”

Low- to no-cost energy efficiency tips

High temperatures can lead to higher energy usage and bills as people try to stay cool. Below are some tips to help manage your energy use.

Change air filters regularly. A dirty air filter makes an HVAC system work harder, which uses more energy.
Set your thermostat at the highest comfortable setting. The smaller the difference between the inside and outside temperatures, the lower your energy usage and bill will be.
Close blinds, drapes and curtains during the hottest part of the day. Keeping your blinds, drapes and curtains closed will help prevent the sun's rays from heating your house.
Use a ceiling fan in occupied rooms to supplement your air conditioning. Make sure the fans are set to operate in a counterclockwise direction to push cool air down into living spaces.
Grill outdoors. Using your electric oven and stovetop creates a lot of indoor heat. Help save energy by firing up the grill outdoors or prepare meals that don't require cooking.
Turn off unnecessary lights. Be sure to turn off lights when you leave a room. Lights emit heat and cause your air conditioning system to work harder.

5 easy energy efficiency projects for your home

Sealing air leaks and installing faucet aerators will help you save money by using less energy. These tips and videos will show you how with step-by-step instructions. And, if you have a home improvement project that requires a contractor, Find It Duke can provide free referrals.

Install switch and outlet seals. Cooled air that escapes means your home’s cooling system works harder. Installing seals behind electric switches and outlets on exterior walls helps keep the cool air in, and warm air out. Video and b-roll
Apply weatherstripping to doors. Keep cooled air inside your home with self-adhesive weatherstripping on door frames. Video and b-roll
Caulk around windows and doors. Applying a bead of caulk around windows and doors is a simple way to keep cool air inside. Video and b-roll
Replace showerhead. You can reduce the amount of water you use by about 30% after replacing your showerhead with a low-flow model. This energy saving feature saves water, of course, but also cuts down on energy usage if you have an electric water heater. Video and b-roll
Install a faucet aerator. An aerator on the kitchen faucet will use less water, conserve energy and lower your energy costs. Video and b-roll

Track, manage your energy usage

Customers can also easily track and adjust their usage all summer long.

Customers with smart meters can check online to view their daily usage. Smart meters collect usage information by the hour, so checking spikes throughout the month – by day and even hour – can show what appliances and behaviors are increasing their bills. Video and b-roll available here.

Duke Energy customers with smart meters also receive usage alerts through email and/or text halfway through their billing cycle, well before their bill arrives, with their current usage amount and a projection of what their final monthly bill could be.

Customers can also set budget alerts, so they know when their bill reaches a specific dollar amount of their choosing, allowing them to adjust their usage and help save money on their bill.

Customers without smart meters can sign up to receive high bill alerts for when adverse weather is projected to increase their electric bills by at least 30 percent and $30 compared to historical usage.

Other energy-saving programs, tips and guidance to help you manage higher energy bills that can result from increased energy is available at Duke-Energy.com/Summer.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Meghan Miles
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_MeghanM

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Duke Energy Foundation grants seek to expand broadband internet access in Indiana’s underserved areas

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 21:39:00 GMT

Grants include $100,000 for Purdue Center for Regional Development; $13,000 for Indiana Farm Bureau

PLAINFIELD, Ind. – Two Duke Energy Foundation grants totaling more than $113,000 will help improve broadband internet access in underserved areas in 15 Indiana counties.

The foundation has awarded a grant of $100,000 to the Purdue Center for Regional Development to work with counties to develop “digital inclusion plans” to assess broadband access and needs. The targeted counties will receive $5,000 each to develop the plans.

“Whether it was remote work, distance learning, or telehealth, the pandemic reinforced the value of broadband access and highlighted a digital divide between those who have access to the internet and those who do not,” said Stan Pinegar, Duke Energy Indiana state president. “As I visit community leaders and customers in our service area, the urgent need for improved connectivity inevitably comes up. We want to make sure that Indiana can compete in today’s rapidly digitizing economy and society. Internet access has become an essential part of everyday life.

Counties selected will be in Duke Energy’s 69-county Indiana service area and will need to complete an application to the Purdue Center for Regional Development to be considered for participation. Visit https://pcrd.purdue.edu/act to apply.

“Before we can tackle a challenge, we need a road map and resources that show us where needs are and how we can fill the gaps,” said Dr. Roberto Gallardo, director of the Purdue Center for Regional Development. “With the support of the Duke Energy Foundation grant, we can provide the technical assistance that will help local communities develop or implement their plans to address digital exclusion today.”

The Duke Energy Foundation is also supporting the recently announced Indiana Rural Broadband Strategic Partnership aimed at strengthening broadband infrastructure throughout Indiana. The Indiana Farm Bureau and five other organizations are leading the effort that measures how widely broadband is used by citizens.

The initiative encourages residents to participate in the free, anonymous broadband speed test that can be done on any device connected to the internet. No personal information is collected. The information gathered will help direct investments in critical infrastructure that will expand the availability of high-quality internet access across the state. The Duke Energy Foundation grant of approximately $13,000 will help pay for the software involved.

Duke Energy Indiana and Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. In Indiana, the Foundation contributes more than $2 million annually in charitable gifts funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars.

Media contact: Angeline Protogere
Office: 317.838.1338
Media line: 800.559.3853

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Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions will build its largest solar project to date: 250-MW Pisgah Ridge Solar in Texas

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 12:00:00 GMT

Charles River will invest in a portion of the solar power generated by the site.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions*, a nonregulated commercial brand of Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), today announced the start of construction of the 250-megawatt (MW) Pisgah Ridge Solar project in Navarro County, Texas.

Once in operation, it will be the largest utility-scale solar facility in Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions’ fleet.

Charles River Laboratories International Inc. (NYSE: CRL), a leading provider of critical research tools and integrated support services that enable innovative and efficient drug discovery and development, has signed a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) for 102 MW of the project over 15 years. This commitment will address the entirety of the company’s North American electric power load with clean, renewable energy by 2023.

“We’re excited to continue to grow our Texas solar portfolio, which will provide additional energy resources for the citizens of Texas to help meet their growing demand and need for a more diverse energy infrastructure,” said Chris Fallon, president of Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions. “This project demonstrates how we can address the community’s need for clean energy resources, while providing unique sustainability solutions for customers like Charles River.”

“This VPPA is the first step toward our commitment to source 100% renewable electricity globally by 2030. The benefits of the Pisgah Ridge Solar project move us substantially closer to achieving that goal,” said Gregg Belardo, senior director of EHS & sustainability at Charles River.

Charles River was advised on the VPPA by Schneider Electric, who assisted the company in its project selection and negotiations.

Two other corporations have signed separate 15-year VPPA agreements for the remaining 148 MW of solar energy generated by the Pisgah Ridge Solar project. All three VPPAs associated with the site will settle on an as-generated basis tied to the project’s real-time energy output.

The engineering and construction for the project are being performed by Moss, while Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions will own and operate the project. The team expects to achieve commercial operation of Pisgah Ridge Solar by the end of 2022.

The project is expected to employ 200 to 300 workers at peak construction. Along with indirect economic benefits that accompany solar project development, such as increased local spending in the service and construction industries, the Pisgah Ridge Solar facility will also have a positive economic impact on the local community by providing significant tax revenues for the Corsicana Independent School District.

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions currently operates nearly 1,500 MW of wind, 500 MW of solar and a 36 MW battery storage facility in Texas. The addition of the 250 MW Pisgah Ridge Solar facility, which will be located outside of Dallas, will generate enough energy to power approximately 63,000 additional residences in the state.

As one of the nation’s top renewable energy providers, Duke Energy plans to double its enterprise wide renewable portfolio from 8 GW to 16 GW by the end of 2025.

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos, videos and other materials. Duke Energy’s illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Charles River

Charles River provides essential products and services to help pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, government agencies and leading academic institutions around the globe accelerate their research and drug development efforts. Our dedicated employees are focused on providing clients with exactly what they need to improve and expedite the discovery, early-stage development and safe manufacture of new therapies for the patients who need them. To learn more about our unique portfolio and breadth of services, visit www.criver.com.

Cautionary language concerning forward-looking statements

This document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by terms and phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will," "potential," "forecast," "target," "outlook," "guidance," and similar expressions. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. These risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Duke Energy’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than Duke Energy has described. Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Media contact: Jennifer Garber
Media line: 800.559.3853
Email: jennifer.garber@Duke-Energy.com

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Duke Energy announces $1 million in grant opportunities for North Carolina nonprofits dedicated to social justice, racial equity

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 18:26:00 GMT

Nonprofits serving communities of color will receive $25,000 grants for general operating funds.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy today announced its second annual $1 million grant opportunity through the Duke Energy Foundation for North Carolina nonprofit organizations working for social justice and racial equity.

Applications will be reviewed through a competitive grant cycle, and $25,000 grants will be awarded for general operating funds at eligible nonprofits.

The company has committed to an annual social justice and racial equity grant cycle for at least three years in North Carolina.

“Duke Energy is proud to continue partnering with nonprofits taking a stand against racism across North Carolina,” said Stephen De May, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president. “As a community, we have more work to do to ensure justice and opportunity for our underserved neighbors, and these grants will support organizations on the front lines advocating for racial equity.”

The N.C. Social Justice and Racial Equity grant cycle will operate with the following strategic principles:

Nonprofits with a history of championing social justice and racial equity work on behalf of people of color, as represented in their mission statements and previous bodies of work, are the priority for this program.

Nonprofits led by people of color, a historically underfunded group across philanthropy, will be given additional consideration in the grant review process.

Preference will be given to nonprofits not already funded by, or not eligible for, the Duke Energy Foundation’s other competitive grant cycles, specifically the K-12 education, workforce and nature grant cycles.

Organizations awarded a Social Justice and Racial Equity grant in 2020 are eligible to apply again in 2021.

The nonprofit applicant may be a governmental entity if the organization meets the strategic principles listed above.

All regions of North Carolina served by Duke Energy Progress or Duke Energy Carolinas are eligible.

"The fight for social justice and racial equity must be joined by all sectors of society," said George R. Hausen Jr., executive director of Legal Aid of North Carolina. "We thank the Duke Energy Foundation for standing with us as we work to make equal justice for all a reality in North Carolina."

Grant applications should come from organizations with primary missions of addressing social justice and racial equity. Initiatives of focus for interested organizations may include but are not limited to:

Training and policy reform.

Criminal justice reform, including community policing.

Civic engagement for communities of color.

Reducing disparate outcomes for people of color through education and workforce development.

Legal assistance, including pathways to citizenship.

The grant application is open now through Aug. 31, 2021. Eligible nonprofits should visit duke-energy.com/RacialEquity to access the application and materials. Nonprofits can also register and join us for a webinar to learn more about this grant opportunity.

Applicants will be notified about the outcome of their applications before Oct. 31.

Duke Energy Foundation

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Shawna Berger
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_ShawnaB

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Florida Department of Environmental Protection completes initial revitalization of critical salt marsh habitat

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 17:11:00 GMT

EASTPOINT, Fla. – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is prioritizing coastal resilience by restoring the shoreline at the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Together with Duke Energy Florida and nonprofits including Conservation Corps of the Forgotten and Emerald Coasts, DEP is restoring the Cat Point shoreline by working to limit erosion and rehabilitate salt marsh habitat.

Recently, the team completed the first replanting of smooth cordgrass, a critical component of healthy salt marsh.

As a result of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill and associated response activities, salt marsh habitats along Florida’s Panhandle suffered adverse impacts.

The Cat Point Living Shoreline was selected as a Deepwater Horizon Natural Resource Damage Assessment Phase III early restoration project.

The project seeks to mitigate the damage by reducing shoreline erosion, providing habitat and creating breakwaters to reduce wave energy.

The Cat Point project, which began in 2019, includes the expansion of existing breakwater, placing sand fill along eroded areas of the shoreline and creating additional salt marsh habitat utilizing Spartina alterniflora, or smooth cordgrass.

Smooth cordgrass is a perennial grass found in intertidal wetlands and helps foster reef and salt marsh habitat development, as well as control shoreline erosion.

While other facets of the project were successful, the first phase of smooth cordgrass plantings were eliminated following a series of named storms in 2020.

“Living shorelines are a crucial tool to mitigate shoreline erosion while maintaining habitats and sustaining resilient coasts,” said DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein. “The headway made on this project, despite the challenges of 2020, is a testament to our valued relationships and the resilience, determination and passion of DEP."

Duke Energy Florida and DEP’s Northwest Florida Aquatic Preserves donated thousands of smooth cordgrass plants to support the additional restoration efforts.

Many of the plants were harvested at Duke Energy’s Crystal River Mariculture Center, an instrumental research resource that advances environmental stewardship throughout Florida.

"Duke Energy Florida is proud to work with DEP to help protect Franklin County's shoreline," said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. "We have a responsibility to preserve our natural resources and reduce our footprint on the environment. It is essential to ensuring the economic vitality of the communities we serve."

The planting efforts have been spearheaded by staff from DEP’s Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve and Central Panhandle Aquatic Preserves, along with volunteers from Coastal Conservation Association of Florida and Conservation Corps of the Forgotten and Emerald Coasts.

Conservation Corps Director of Restoration Holden Foley said, “Our crew members are very excited to be part of the restoration of the Cat Point Living Shoreline. It is rewarding to see the results and know the impact of our work."

“Working together is integral to the success of the living shoreline project, and without this collaboration we would not be able to complete this restoration project,” said Alex Reed, director of DEP’s Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection. “Volunteers have been working with staff to get the plants in the ground. We appreciate everyone’s efforts to make this successful.”

An additional phase of smooth cordgrass planting is planned for 2022.

Duke Energy Florida

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Ana Gibbs
Cell: 813.928.7263
Media line: 800.559.3853

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Duke Energy issues statement regarding confirmation of N.C. DEQ Secretary Delli-Gatti

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 19:00:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy today issued the following statement concerning the confirmation of North Carolina DEQ Secretary Delli-Gatti:

“We are committed to a clean, reliable energy transition for North Carolina. While the communities we serve are seeing the benefits of this transition already, we understand there are many opportunities left to further this good progress.

“Based on our many years of experience working with DEQ Secretary Delli-Gatti, we fully support her confirmation to lead the Department of Environmental Quality. Secretary Delli-Gatti previously served on our North Carolina president’s advisory council, and we have appreciated her willingness to collaborate on key energy issues and the perspective she brings as the state works together to chart a path forward.”

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: 800.559.3853

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Duke Energy Kentucky files request for regulatory review of its natural gas distribution rates

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 18:12:00 GMT

Investments in infrastructure projects to enhance natural gas reliability and resiliency in growing northern counties.

Seeks permission to increase natural gas distribution rates by approximately $15.2 million.

CINCINNATI – Following significant investments to make Northern Kentucky’s natural gas distribution system more reliable and resilient for customers, Duke Energy Kentucky today filed a request with its state regulator, the Kentucky Public Service Commission, to review the company’s natural gas rates.

These investments include the installation of new infrastructure, including natural gas pipelines, retiring and replacing equipment in order to ensure customers have the natural gas service they expect and deserve.

“In Northern Kentucky, it is critical that we continue to make smart investments to improve the reliability and resiliency of our natural gas delivery system,” said Amy Spiller, president of Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky. “These are strategic investments in our infrastructure and our region that are providing benefits to our customers today and for decades to come.”

Multimillion-dollar investments, not operational costs, main drivers for increase

Duke Energy Kentucky has invested nearly $190 million in a variety of capital projects across Northern Kentucky since it last asked regulators to approve a natural gas base rate increase in 2018. And, since that time, the company’s costs to operate and maintain its system have remained nearly flat.

The company’s recent multimillion-dollar capital investments have improved the reliability and resiliency of its natural gas delivery system across Northern Kentucky. Key investments include:

The Boone County natural gas infrastructure project, under construction since 2020, spans 7 miles from Turfway Road ultimately ending on Camp Ernst Road. The first portion of this project went into service at the end of 2020, and the second segment is scheduled to be in service this winter. This project was constructed in response to load growth and to enhance system reliability.

The Three Mile Station project involved the replacement of an existing natural gas regulator station in Wilder, Ky. The main components of the project include engineering design, procurement, and construction of the replacement facility.

Impact on customers’ bills

As part of its request, Duke Energy Kentucky seeks approval to increase its current natural gas base rates by approximately $15.2 million. The company delivers natural gas to over 100,000 customers in seven counties in Northern Kentucky.

Under the company’s proposal, residential customers who use an average of 57 100-cubic-feet (Ccf) per month will see an $8.77 – or 12.7% – increase on their monthly natural gas bills, from $69.31 to $78.08.

This proposed increase will vary depending on the amount of natural gas a customer uses, a customer’s rate type and the prevailing cost of the natural gas commodity.

The company is also seeking approval of a new mechanism to track costs associated with the company’s obligation to adhere to governmental directives or mandates (Rider GMA). These mandates include changes in federal or state tax rates, and those promulgated by federal governmental entities and agencies that require the company to upgrade or replace our natural gas delivery infrastructure. Rider GMA would act as either a credit or a charge to customers, depending upon the impact of the governmental mandate. Duke Energy Kentucky’s proposed Rider GMA will be applicable to all natural gas customers.

Next steps

Once the Kentucky Public Service Commission deems the filing to be complete, they will set up a schedule for upcoming activities associated with the rate review case. The process will include opportunities for customers and other stakeholders to learn more about the company’s request and provide testimony to be included in the docket. Duke Energy Kentucky expects the rate review process to last until the end of 2021.

The company’s application and supporting documentation, as well as any other entries related to the review, can be found under Case No. 2021-00190 on the Kentucky Public Service Commission’s website. Additional information on Duke Energy Kentucky’s application can be found at duke-energy.com/Gas-KY.

Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Sally Thelen
Office: 513.287.2432
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_SallyT

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Duke Energy urges customers to prepare for hurricane season

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 15:33:00 GMT

Company is strengthening electric infrastructure to reduce outages and improve resiliency.

Take simple steps now to prepare your home, business for emergencies.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – June 1 marks the beginning of the Atlantic hurricane season and serves as an important reminder to take steps now to prepare for hurricanes and other severe weather to keep your family safe and protect your property.

The 2021 Atlantic season runs through Nov. 30. Duke Energy meteorologists forecast 20 storms and nine hurricanes for 2021, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts 13 to 20 named storms and six to 10 hurricanes.

Duke Energy works all year to prepare for hurricanes and other severe storms and modernize its power delivery system. The improvements increase reliability and resiliency, strengthen the grid against severe weather and hurricanes, and provide for better customer service.

“We’ve been making upgrades across our system to build a stronger and smarter power grid to serve our customers,” said Scott Batson, senior vice president and Duke Energy’s chief distribution officer. “Our crews are ready to respond when the next hurricane strikes. The improvements we have made, and will continue to make, will provide real benefits to customers and communities and help us restore power faster when they count on us most.”

Duke Energy’s smart-thinking grid automatically detects outages and intelligently reroutes power to speed restoration or avoid outages altogether.

Self-healing technology helped to avoid nearly 600,000 extended customer outages in North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida in 2020, saving more than 1 million hours of total outage time. Over the next few years, Duke Energy expects to install enough self-healing technology to serve most customers.

Ping-it technology

After a storm, Duke Energy crews must physically inspect miles of power line to ensure everyone’s power is restored. It’s time consuming, but Duke Energy crews can now use a technology called Ping-it to remotely check that service has been restored following repairs. Ping-it sends a signal to each meter in a few seconds to confirm repairs were successful. This saves time and frees up crews to help other customers. Duke Energy has installed more than 8.5 million smart meters, providing new technology to better serve customers in six states.

Interview soundbites and b-roll video, as well as high resolution photos of a smart meter installation, are posted in the Multimedia Gallery in the Duke Energy News Center.

Please visit illumination for additional information on how Duke Energy is preparing for hurricane season.

Important safety steps

Before the storm

Create (or update) an emergency supply kit to save valuable time later. The kit should include everything an individual or family would need for at least two weeks, especially medicines, water, non-perishable foods and other supplies that might be hard to find after a storm hits. Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has relaxed some of its guidance for vaccinated individuals, an emergency kit should still include items that can help protect you and others from COVID-19, such as hand sanitizer, bar or liquid soap, and face coverings aligned with CDC guidance.

Keep a portable radio or TV or a NOAA weather radio on hand to monitor weather forecasts and important information from state and local officials.

Charge cellphones, computers and other electronic devices in advance of storms to stay connected to important safety and response information. Consider purchasing portable chargers and make sure they are fully charged as well.

Maintain a plan to move family members – especially those with special needs – to a safe, alternative location in case an extended power outage occurs or evacuation is required.

Review insurance policies and include extra copies of the policies and other important documents in your emergency supply kit (ideally in a waterproof container).

Pet owners should arrange to stay at evacuation shelters that accept pets, friends' or family members' homes, or pet-friendly hotels.

After the storm

Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized, as well as trees, limbs or anything in contact with lines.

If a power line falls across a car that you are in, stay in the car. If you MUST get out of the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.

If you need to go to a disaster shelter, follow CDC recommendations for staying safe and healthy in a public disaster shelter during the COVID-19 pandemic.

For more tips on how to prepare for storm season, and how Duke Energy can help, please visit duke-energy.com/StormTips. For storm or power restoration updates, follow Duke Energy on Twitter (@DukeEnergy) and Facebook (Duke Energy). A checklist serves as a helpful guide, but it's critical before, during and after a storm to follow the instructions and warnings of emergency management officials in your area.

Outage reporting

While residents of coastal areas, including Florida and the Carolinas, are at most risk of being affected by hurricanes, such storms also can bring damaging high winds and rain inland.

Before the storm hits, customers should contact us to make sure their contact information is up to date and their communication preferences are noted, so they receive proactive outreach on the status of a power outage they may experience. Customers who experience an outage during a storm can report it the following ways:

Visit duke-energy.com on a desktop computer or mobile device.

Use the Duke Energy mobile app – Download the Duke Energy App from a smartphone via Apple Store or Google Play.

Text OUT to 57801 (standard text and data charges may apply).

Call the automated outage-reporting system for your utility:
- Duke Energy Carolinas: 800.769.3766
- Duke Energy Progress: 800.419.6356
- Duke Energy Florida: 800.228.8485
- Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky: 800.543.5599
- Duke Energy Indiana: 800.343.3525

Customer service specialists will be available to manage customer calls should the need arise, with more than 1,500 additional corporate responders from across all Duke Energy jurisdictions available to assist as needed.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Allison Barker
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_AllisonB

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After stakeholder input, Duke Energy files Phase II electric transportation program in N.C.

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 11:31:00 GMT

Phase II programs include more public charging stations, electric vehicle (EV) charging for customers and electric conversion of school buses

Company efforts will lead to more than 1,000 charging ports being installed in the state

Make-ready and charging programs will reduce upfront costs to EV adoption and enable customer choice

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Following six months of stakeholder input, Duke Energy recently filed an additional $56 million proposal of Phase II programs to continue the advancement of transportation electrification in North Carolina.

The filing follows the November 2020 N.C. Utilities Commission (NCUC) order approving the company’s $25 million Phase I electric transportation pilot program.

In its earlier order, the NCUC instructed Duke Energy to work with the Public Staff to organize a collaborative stakeholder process and then file any stakeholder-developed pilot programs.

“The move to an electric-driven transportation sector will include input from stakeholders from across North Carolina,” said Stephen De May, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president. “Our filing reflects the best ideas we heard on how Duke Energy can spur that transition.”

Although North Carolina has more than 26,000 electric vehicles in the state, Gov. Roy Cooper’s Executive Order 80 set forth a statewide goal of getting 80,000 zero-emission vehicles on the road by 2025.

Duke Energy’s efforts will lead to more than 1,000 charging ports being installed in the state. The company’s Phase II pilot programs will:

Build on the company’s earlier pilot by expanding DC fast charging on state highways, charging at multifamily dwellings and provide financial support to school systems to purchase 60 electric school buses.
Support the continued development of the competitive market for DC fast charging by requiring multiple providers of the hardware and software, creating a transparent stakeholder informed process around vendor selection that allows for alternative pricing by site hosts.
Create a pilot for a tariffed EV charging program for residential and business customers. This program allows for customers to install and operate EV charging stations for a low monthly rate with the customer making all operational choices, including brand of hardware and network. In many cases, this may be a zero upfront cost option for customers charging EVs.

Separate from the Phase II filing, on April 30 the company filed for approval of a make-ready tariff that will provide credits to reduce the upfront cost of upgrading electrical systems to install charging infrastructure for homeowners and businesses.

“High upfront costs prevent our customers from unlocking the substantial benefits of EVs, and this challenge is especially prevalent for low- and moderate-income families,” said Lon Huber, Duke Energy’s vice president of rate design and strategic solutions. “These new programs remove a key financial barrier to adoption, enabling everyone to benefit from the expanded use of electric vehicles.”

Huber added that the collaborative stakeholder meetings in North Carolina will continue to review how the Phase II pilot programs are performing and to discuss innovative ways to expand the EV market, including additional rate designs and programs.

Supporting the transition to EVs

Duke Energy is a major supporter of electric vehicles. It has already launched ambitious programs to expand EV charging both internally at Duke Energy locations and externally through several utility pilot programs. An internal “Electrify by Example” initiative is starting with an effort to install workplace chargers at all work locations to enable employees to drive electric.

In Florida, the company's Park & Plug pilot has installed more than 590 EV public charging stations throughout the state. The deployment includes 50 fast-charging stations connecting areas of Florida previously underserved by EV fast-charging infrastructure. To date, drivers have used the Park & Plug network for more than 75,000 charging sessions, displacing more than 110,000 gallons of gasoline.

Regulatory action in 2020 led to pilot programs being approved in both North Carolina and South Carolina. If Duke Energy’s recent EV filings in North Carolina are approved, the company will build on its leadership with a comprehensive suite of EV programs, making it more affordable and convenient for customers to access EV charging infrastructure.

In South Carolina, the company will provide up to a total of $1,000 for 400 residential Duke Energy Carolinas customers who install a Level 2 charging station, provide access to their charging data, and manage EV charging load to occur during off-peak periods. The company will also deploy 60 fast chargers there to expand access to fast-charging infrastructure in the state.

About Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Contact: Randy Wheeless
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_RandyW

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Duke Energy begins construction on 22.6-megawatt Cabarrus County, N.C., solar project

Wed, 26 May 2021 11:49:00 GMT

Newest solar project selected through rigorous competitive bidding process in N.C.

Joins more than 40 other Duke Energy solar plants in the state

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Expanding its rapidly growing clean-energy portfolio, Duke Energy has begun construction on the 22.6-MW Speedway Solar power plant in Cabarrus County.

The project will be owned and operated by Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions, a new commercial brand that includes Duke Energy Renewables. The project was selected as part of the competitive bidding process established by 2017’s landmark solar legislation in North Carolina.

The power plant will contain about 77,000 Jinko bifacial modules with single-axis tracking. The plant will be located on 185 acres in Midland, N.C. – near the corner of Wallace Road and Bethel Avenue Extension. The facility will power the equivalent of 5,000 homes. It is targeting commercial operation by the end of 2021.

“Duke Energy is making an aggressive push to expand renewable energy, reduce carbon emissions and achieve a net-zero carbon goal for 2050,” said Stephen De May, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president. “An expansion of solar power will be a key element of that effort.”

“We’re pleased to be able to add more clean energy resources to the state. This facility will not only address the increasing clean energy needs of our communities but will also deliver significant economic benefits to Cabarrus County,” said Chris Fallon, president of Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions.

During peak construction, Speedway Solar will employ about 70 workers. Along with indirect economic benefits that accompany solar project development, such as increased local spending in the service and construction industries, Speedway Solar will also have a positive economic impact on the local community by providing local tax revenues to the county and local school districts, as well as meaningful payments to the participating landowners.

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions also supports the communities where its facilities and team members are based through the efforts of the Duke Energy Foundation, which awarded a $5,000 grant to the Cabarrus County Education Foundation to increase internet connectivity for students in Midland and Mt. Pleasant, N.C.

The facility’s design, procurement of inverters, balance of plant systems and construction of the project will be performed by Swinerton. The solar power generated by Speedway Solar will be delivered through a 20-year power purchase agreement.

A leader in renewable energy

As one of the nation’s top renewable energy providers, Duke Energy’s plans to double its enterprise wide renewable portfolio from 8 gigawatts (GW) of capacity to 16 GW by the end of 2025.

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos, videos and other materials. Duke Energy’s illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements.

This document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by terms and phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will," "potential," "forecast," "target," "outlook," "guidance," and similar expressions. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. These risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Duke Energy’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than Duke Energy has described. Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact: Randy Wheeless
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_RandyW

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Duke Energy helps fund electric motorcycles for Largo, Fla., police

Tue, 25 May 2021 18:51:00 GMT

Department is among first law enforcement agencies in Tampa Bay area to add electric motorcycles.

Duke Energy installed 13 electric vehicle charging ports through Park & Plug program at 7 city-owned locations.

LARGO, Fla. – The Largo Police Department is revving up and patrolling the streets on two new all-electric motorcycles, funded in part with a Duke Energy grant.

“The Largo Police Department is very proud to support the City of Largo’s goals to transition to utilizing renewable energy in our fleet of police vehicles. In addition to the Zero electric motorcycles, we have added 23 hybrid Ford Interceptor SUVs this year,” said Largo Police Chief Jeffrey Undestad. “I am proud of the hard work and collaboration that went into this project that will help ensure Largo’s natural environment for future generations.”

The Largo Police Department received $7,000 from Duke Energy earlier this year to aid in the purchase of the Zero motorcycles. These motorcycles, which will join the city's growing alternative-fuel fleet, are among the first of their kind in the Tampa Bay area. In addition, the motorcycles will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve local air quality.

In addition to helping to fund the electric motorcycles for the police department, Duke Energy’s Park & Plug program installed about 30 electric vehicle charging ports in Largo, including 13 EV charging ports at seven city-owned locations.

“Duke Energy’s investment in regional charging infrastructure is one example of how we’re committed to providing smarter, cleaner energy alternatives for our customers,” said Sharon Arroyo, Duke Energy Florida vice president of Government and Community Relations. “We are proud of our collaboration with the City of Largo to help them meet their sustainability goals not only by installing multiple public EV charging stations, but also by helping to purchase these electric motorcycles for the police department.”

The collaboration with Duke Energy highlights the city’s strategic focus on sustainability and commitment to transitioning to 100% renewable energy by 2035. The goals are part of Largo’s Environmental Action Plan (LEAP), which serves as the blueprint for the organization to reduce its environmental impact. Visit Largo.com/LEAP to learn more about the plan.

Since launching its Park & Plug program in 2018, Duke Energy has installed 600 electric vehicle charging stations in Florida. Sites include local businesses; major streets and thoroughfares with broad public access; apartment complexes and other multi-unit dwellings; and workplace sites. About 10% of the new charging stations have been installed in low income communities.

Duke Energy Florida

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Allison Barker
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_AllisonB

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Duke Energy Progress receives approval for new rates in North Carolina; implements low-income initiatives

Mon, 24 May 2021 16:24:00 GMT

New rates cover past investments in cleaner, more reliable energy.

Working groups to develop low-income, rate design, grid resiliency initiatives.

Duke Energy shareholders to contribute $16 million to support low-income customers.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy Progress will implement new rates for North Carolina customers on June 1, as approved by the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC).

The new rates include state and federal tax savings for customers and will remain below the national average, even after adjustments are made to reflect past investments in cleaner, more reliable energy.

As part of its order, the NCUC approved settlement agreements reached with more than 10 diverse customer and environmental groups around ash basin closure costs, future grid investments and other major components of the 2019 rate request.

“Our investments over the past several years have helped lead the state to cleaner energy sources, while keeping energy affordable and reliable for customers,” said Stephen De May, North Carolina president, Duke Energy. “We look forward to continued collaboration with stakeholders to implement new initiatives that support customers and advance North Carolina’s energy transition.”

The final rate order can be viewed at the NCUC website, and highlights of the order can be found here.

Rate impact by customer group

Duke Energy Progress electric rates will increase by an average of 4.7% across all customer groups, effective June 1.

The annualized bill for a typical residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per month will increase to $119.83 from the current $113.53 over the next two years.

The specific increase for individual customer groups will vary, depending on the rate they pay. The average rate increase will be 5.3% for residential customers, 4.7% for commercial customers and 3.6% for industrial customers.

The new rates are reduced by customer savings resulting from federal and state tax reform. As the tax savings are fully deployed to customers, electric rates will adjust after two years and again after five years.

Duke Energy Progress serves 1.4 million households and businesses in central and eastern North Carolina and in the Asheville region.

Support for low-income customers

The NCUC approved several Duke Energy proposals to reduce the impact of rising costs on low- and fixed-income customers. Duke Energy shareholders will contribute $6 million over two years to the Helping Home Fund to provide energy- and cost-saving measures to North Carolina customers, $5 million over two years to the Duke Energy Carolinas Share the Warmth program and $5 million over two years to the Duke Energy Progress Energy Neighbor Fund to provide billing assistance to low-income customers.

Also, the company will convene a broad stakeholder workshop to evaluate and implement new protections for low-income customers, including a potential income-qualified energy efficiency pilot program.

“We know rising costs can be difficult for many customers, but particularly for those on low and fixed incomes,” De May said. “We are working to minimize the impact of these important investments on our customers least able to accommodate rate increases. And going forward, we will be working with diverse stakeholders and customer advocate groups to implement innovative solutions and additional protections for our most vulnerable customers.”

Duke Energy has taken numerous additional steps during the pandemic to support North Carolina customers through suspension of disconnections, flexible payment arrangements and more than $20 million in charitable giving across the state.

Customers can visit duke-energy.com/home/savings for energy-saving tips and programs. The company also has programs to help customers with managing their bills. Learn more at duke-energy.com/home/billing/special-assistance.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Meredith Archie
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy Carolinas receives approval for new rates in North Carolina; implements low-income initiatives

Mon, 24 May 2021 14:54:00 GMT

New rates cover past investments in cleaner, more reliable energy.

Working groups to develop low-income, rate design, grid resiliency initiatives.

Duke Energy shareholders to contribute $16 million to support low-income customers.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy Carolinas will implement new rates for North Carolina customers on June 1, as approved by the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC).

The final rate order can be viewed at the NCUC website, and highlights of the order can be found here.

Rate impact by customer group

Electric rates will increase by an average of 0.7% across all customer groups, effective June 1.

The annualized bill for a typical residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per month will increase, less than $2.00 per month, to $106.25 from the current $104.54 over the next two years.

The specific increase for individual customer groups will vary, depending on the rate they pay. The average rate increase will be 0.7% for residential customers, 0.5% for commercial customers and 0.3% for industrial customers.

Duke Energy Carolinas serves 2 million households and businesses in central and western North Carolina.

Support for low-income customers

Also, the company will convene a broad stakeholder workshop to evaluate and implement new protections for low-income customers, including a potential income-qualified energy efficiency pilot program.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Meredith Archie
800.559.3853

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Malta teams up with Duke Energy to study possibility of converting coal units into clean energy storage facilities

Wed, 19 May 2021 13:00:00 GMT

Study focuses on the socioeconomic, environmental and operational benefits of integrating Malta’s 100-megawatt, 10-hour pumped heat energy storage system into existing infrastructure.

A grant from the U.S. Department of Energy is funding the year-long study.

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. – Malta Inc. is teaming up with Duke Energy to study the socioeconomic, environmental and operational benefits of converting retiring coal units into long-duration, zero-emissions energy storage systems by integrating Malta’s 100-megawatt, 10-hour pumped heat energy storage system into existing infrastructure at a Duke Energy coal plant in North Carolina.

A U.S. Department of Energy grant is funding the year-long study of the emerging technology.

Malta is developing a pumped heat energy storage system that leverages well-understood subsystems, components and thermodynamics in a novel energy storage application. By leveraging existing subsystems from well-established industries, the system relies on decades of performance data to ensure safe, resilient operations.

The system stores electricity either directly from a power plant or from the grid by converting electricity into thermal energy (heat and cold). Heat is stored in molten salt, a decades-old and proven method of storing thermal energy. Cold is stored in an antifreeze-like solution with components and subsystems widely used in the liquefied natural gas industry.

The system operates like a conventional power plant. When electricity is needed, the thermal energy powers a heat engine to produce clean, reliable energy.

“Malta is excited to work with Duke Energy to identify cost-effective, common-sense paths forward for fossil assets that consider all stakeholders,” said Ramya Swaminathan, Malta’s CEO. “For utilities like Duke Energy to meet their net-zero carbon emissions goals, major advancements in technology are needed. The Malta system could be part of the solution by providing zero-emissions, load-following technology that provides reliable, resilient and around-the-clock power.”

Though the study will focus on the energy industry’s current need for 10-12 hours of energy storage, the Malta system can be configured to store up to 200 hours of energy storage.

“Duke Energy is investing in innovation as part of our clean energy transformation plan to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050,” said Regis Repko, senior vice president of Duke Energy’s Generation and Transmission Strategy organization. “For years, Duke Energy has actively evaluated emerging technologies, and the Malta study marks the first time we will evaluate long-duration thermal energy storage. We expect the results to influence the future of energy and apply to our larger generation fleet.”

The study’s deliverables include an engineering conceptual study, a technology maturation plan and a socioeconomic report on potential benefits, including:

Job retention. Incumbent workforces could transition from operating coal-fired plants to operating the mechanically similar Malta system.
Local economic impacts. An operating clean energy storage system could preserve some jobs and a portion of the local property tax base, offsetting some impacts from closing coal plants.
Environmental benefits. Adding more utility-scale, long-duration storage could allow the company to integrate more renewables like solar, particularly when the sun isn’t shining.
Operational benefits. Long-duration energy storage could increase flexibility, reducing wear on generation assets by decreasing the number of times a unit needs to turn on and off.

The Department of Energy announced the grant in March, and the team is identifying which of Duke Energy’s six coal plants in North Carolina is best suited to serve as the test site.

Malta Inc.

Malta is a developer of grid-scale long-duration thermal energy storage solutions. Incubated at X, the Moonshot Factory (formerly Google [X]), Malta is based in Cambridge, Mass. For more information, visit www.maltainc.com.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50% carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contacts:

Malta Inc.
Matt Burke
matt.burke@maltainc.com

Duke Energy
Heather Danenhower
Media line: 800.559.3853
Cell: 352.497.4534
Email: heather.danenhower@duke-energy.com

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Duke Energy responds to Elliott Management's letter

Mon, 17 May 2021 17:19:00 GMT

Duke Energy is delivering value, outperforming the utility sector.

Clean energy strategy has driven increase in long-term growth rate.

Elliott’s record in the regulated utilities sector is a concern.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Below is Duke Energy’s (NYSE: DUK) statement in response to Elliott Management’s announcement today:

Today’s announcement by Elliott is the latest in a series of proposals that the hedge fund has offered to Duke Energy since July 2020. Throughout, Duke Energy’s Board of Directors has reviewed their proposals in depth and determined that they are not in the best interests of the company, its shareholders and other stakeholders.

Duke Energy will review Elliott’s latest proposals as well and the company is always open to new ideas to create growth and value. However, Duke Energy and its Board of Directors will always advocate for the best long-term interests of its shareholders and other stakeholders over any narrow special or short-term interest.

Strong operational performance

Guided by Duke Energy’s management team and world-class Board of Directors, Duke Energy is performing at a high level by executing its clean energy strategy, delivering strong, sustainable value for shareholders, customers, communities and its employees, and outlining a clear vision for future growth, grounded in the largest clean energy transition in the country.

The company is poised to deploy over $125 billion of capital over the next decade and deliver 5% to 7% annual earnings growth along the way. As a result, Duke Energy has increased its long-term EPS growth rate and driven the company’s share price to outperform the S&P Utility Index in both 2020 and year-to-date. Over the last 12 months, Duke Energy’s stock price has increased 25.2% versus 18.7% for the S&P Utility Index.

Duke Energy’s strategic goals are supported by its history of strong safety and operational performance, and excellent customer services, allowing it to consistently pay shareholders a dividend, which the company has increased for 15 consecutive years.

Elliott’s proposals

Duke Energy and its Board have engaged in discussions and reviews with Elliott since July 2020. Elliott’s specific proposals, some of which are outlined in its letter, are summarized here:

Preferential Equity Transaction. Elliott initially tried to induce Duke Energy to issue up to $7 billion of common equity securities to Elliott and its hedge fund allies at a material discount to the public market value of Duke Energy’s equity, essentially transferring approximately 10% of the value of Duke Energy to Elliott. Instead, Duke Energy executed on its highly successful minority stake sale in Duke Energy Indiana at an attractive premium to Duke Energy’s public market valuation satisfying Duke Energy’s equity needs for the next five years. Duke Energy’s share price has outperformed ever since.
Breaking Up the Company. Elliott then proposed a double-spin-off of Duke Energy’s Midwest and Florida utilities. This “shrink-the company” strategy that underlies all of Elliott’s proposals runs counter to the strategic direction of the entire industry at a time when scale is needed to efficiently finance the company’s unprecedented capital investment and growth opportunities. It also ignores the obvious capital structure and credit issues, material equity issuance requirement, dis-synergies, dividend sustainability risk, regulatory issues and overall execution risks.
Demand for Board Seats. Elliott has demanded to appoint new directors to Duke Energy’s board despite the broad and deep experience of Duke Energy’s current board, which has recently added several new members. In addition, Elliott has demanded that Duke Energy put in place a “strategic review,” although Elliott refuses to share the details behind its myriad proposals with management.

Elliott’s approach to Duke Energy thus far is reminiscent of Elliott’s decidedly mixed results in the utility industry, as shown by recent activity with Sempra Energy, FirstEnergy and Evergy. These utilities’ share prices have materially underperformed the sector to date since Elliott became involved, establishing an unenviable track record of shareholder value destruction.

Duke Energy’s climate strategy and a clear financing strategy

Duke Energy has worked to clearly articulate its $59 billion five-year clean energy plan that drives its long-term strategy, and to transition to cleaner energy as the company aims to cut carbon emissions by at least 50% by 2030 and reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The five-year plan will deliver significant customer benefits and create jobs in its communities. Duke Energy is also committed to modernizing and strengthening the energy grid, generating cleaner energy, and expanding its smart energy infrastructure.

A series of accomplishments have positioned Duke Energy to successfully execute its clean energy transformation:

On Jan. 28, the company announced the sale of 19.9% of Duke Energy Indiana to GIC, raising $2.05 billion at a 50% premium to its last-12-months’ trading P/E valuation. Proceeds from this transaction will help fund Duke Energy’s $59 billion capex plan and satisfy all equity capital raising needs for the next five years.
As part of that announcement, the company increased its expected earnings growth rate to 5% to 7%, up from 4% to 6% through 2025.
The company received approval of a comprehensive settlement agreement with the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office, North Carolina Public Staff and Sierra Club which resolved all remaining major coal ash issues, provided clarity on recovery treatment of coal ash costs for the next decade, and achieved a return of and on coal ash expenditures.
On May 4, the company received regulatory approval for a multi-year rate plan agreement with consumer and business groups in Florida that includes nearly $5 billion in investments to advance its clean energy vision. The Florida Public Service Commission noted in their ruling that the settlement was the culmination of extensive engagement with many interested parties, including the Office of Public Counsel, which demonstrated the company’s strong collaborative relationships in that state. Florida’s constructive regulatory framework and significant potential in renewables and clean energy make Florida a central element of Duke Energy’s business and investment plans.
Last fall, the company submitted its integrated resource plans (IRPs) for the Carolinas, which outlined paths to providing cleaner, more sustainable energy to customers, and were positively received by customers, regulators and investors.
Over the last 12 months, Duke Energy's 2022E P/E multiple has increased from 14.5x to 18.9x, significantly outpacing the multiple expansion of the median UTY P/E multiple. This has improved the company’s relative valuation from a P/E discount of (0.6)x to now trading at a premium of 1.0x compared to the UTY constituents median.

A consolidated company and balance sheet have clear benefits

Duke Energy’s business is stronger and more impactful as a consolidated, standalone entity that remains as one. The company can better support its customers, employees, investors and their dividends, and other stakeholders by staying together.

All of its businesses play a critical role in Duke Energy’s clean energy transformation, and the company has made crucial investments and built relationships in each region where it operates.
Duke Energy’s size, scale and geographic diversity are recognized as credit attributes by the rating agencies and contribute to Duke Energy’s strong credit quality and lower cost of capital.
A break-up would result in smaller entities, each allocated a proportional share of Duke Energy’s parent-level debt, which would erode credit quality.
To avoid credit rating downgrades, each entity would be forced to recapitalize through dilutive equity issuances that have no benefit to customers or shareholders.
A consolidated company allows for a growing dividend to the company’s shareholders, investments in its clean energy plan, and benefits from diversified cash flows.

Significant risk of incremental costs

Given the performance of the company, there is no strategic logic to breaking the company apart, and there is serious risk of dis-synergies that would weigh down the various spun-off entities and raise questions about the viability of the dividend to shareholders. For example:

A break-up would require extensive regulatory review at the state and federal level, introducing significant execution risk.
Standing up smaller, independent utilities would require considerable new costs and would reverse a decade of cost cutting efforts by integrating corporate functions of predecessor companies.
These unavoidable new costs would put pressure on utility rates without any tangible benefit to customers and would be highly unlikely to be recoverable from customers, impacting the credit and growth rate of the smaller utilities.

Employees and customers at the center

Duke Energy continues to be laser-focused on serving its communities during the pandemic. The company provided significant support for its customers by suspending disconnections and waiving late-payment and other fees. The company donated more than $8 million to various relief organizations to help support communities in need during the pandemic.

The company is also working to keep its employees safe and has navigated the pandemic while preserving jobs and avoiding furloughs and cuts to base salaries. The company remains committed to those objectives.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Non-GAAP financial information

This release references the long-term range of annual growth of 5% - 7% through 2025 off the midpoint of 2021 adjusted EPS guidance range of $5.15. The 5% - 7% annual growth rate increased from 4% - 6%. In addition, the release references Duke Energy’s 2022E P/E multiple that has increased from 14.5x to 18.9x. The long-term annual growth rate and 2022E P/E multiple are based on forecasted adjusted EPS. The forecasted adjusted EPS is a non-GAAP financial measure as it represents basic EPS available to Duke Energy Corporation common stockholders (GAAP reported EPS), adjusted for the per share impact of special items. Special items represent certain charges and credits, which management believes are not indicative of Duke Energy’s ongoing performance. Due to the forward-looking nature of this non-GAAP financial measure for future periods, information to reconcile it to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure is not available at this time, as management is unable to project all special items for future periods, such as legal settlements, the impact of regulatory orders or asset impairments.

Cautionary language concerning forward-looking statements

This document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by terms and phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will," "potential," "forecast," "target," "outlook," "guidance," and similar expressions. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. These risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Duke Energy’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than Duke Energy has described. Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Media contact: Neil Nissan
800.559.3853

Analysts contact: Jack Sullivan
980.373.3564

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New plaza in Uptown Charlotte to become Duke Energy's corporate headquarters

Mon, 17 May 2021 16:25:00 GMT

Company will vacate several Charlotte area buildings and consolidate into the new Duke Energy Plaza.

Company plans to reduce occupied space in the Charlotte area by approximately 60% to optimize its real estate footprint and reduce costs to benefit customers.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Duke Energy today announced that Duke Energy Plaza, the 40-floor office tower currently under construction in Uptown Charlotte, will become the company’s new corporate headquarters. Formerly known as Metro Tower, Duke Energy Plaza will house approximately 4,400 employees and allow the company to reduce its overall real estate footprint in the Charlotte area and reduce costs to benefit customers.

After a thorough review of the company’s current and future real estate needs in Uptown, the company also plans to exit the Duke Energy Center located at 550 South Tryon Street and Piedmont Town Center in South Park. Once the new tower is complete, the company plans to sell its 526 Church Street and 401 College Street facilities and exit 400 South Tryon Street. The plan will consolidate the space the company occupies in the Charlotte area over the next several years with the goal of reducing its footprint from approximately 2.5 million square feet to approximately 1 million square feet.

“We’re excited to transition our employees into the Duke Energy Plaza, where we will drive additional collaboration and innovation to deliver the affordable, reliable and increasingly clean energy our customers expect and achieve our goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050,” said Donna Council, Duke Energy’s senior vice president of administrative services and real estate. “We’re moving to a new workplace model that provides teammates with more flexibility and hybrid work options, reducing the need for the large real estate footprint we currently occupy. We remain firmly committed to Uptown Charlotte with an office tower that we’ll be proud to call our new home.”

Duke Energy continuously reviews all aspects of the business for opportunities to improve and this real estate plan makes the best business sense. The company expects this decision will result in $85-$90 million in savings over the next five years, which will benefit customers. The company is always focused on running the business in the most efficient way possible to benefit customers and maximize shareholder value.

“These actions will allow us to operate our business more efficiently, enhance employee productivity and better serve our customers and communities,” said Council. “It will also free up premium real estate in Uptown Charlotte for other purposes.”

Construction update

Construction on the new Duke Energy Plaza continues to progress and is on schedule to be completed by the end of 2022 with interior work extending into 2023.

Approximately 1,000 craftsman and trade workers will be employed during the three-year construction period, providing a much-needed economic boost to Charlotte and the surrounding areas during the pandemic.

New workplace strategy model

The new real estate plan continues the company’s efforts to best house its approximately 6,000 employees and contractors in Charlotte to continue delivering affordable, reliable and increasingly clean energy, as well as customer-focused products and services.

The company is adopting a new workplace model where some office employees will work onsite or remotely full-time, but the majority of office employees will have a hybrid schedule where they will split time between working in the office and working remotely.

Duke Energy’s corporate headquarters will be located at the new Duke Energy Plaza beginning in 2023. Until that time, the company will transition into other existing facilities and begin to adopt the new workplace model.

Additional renderings of the Duke Energy Plaza for media use are located here.

Duke Energy Plaza facts

Developer: Childress Klein Properties
Building height: 40 stories
Employees: Will house approximately 4,400 employees
Total square footage: 1 million square feet (appx)
Retail square footage: 25,000 square feet (appx)
Parking: Seven-level above-ground parking with 1,100 parking spaces

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Cautionary language concerning forward-looking statements

This document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by terms and phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will," "potential," "forecast," "target," "outlook," "guidance," and similar expressions. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. These risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Duke Energy’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than Duke Energy has described. Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Media contact: Neil Nissan
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy Foundation awards $100,000 grant to expand Indiana suicide prevention call centers

Mon, 17 May 2021 14:52:00 GMT

Funding to help prepare for national ‘988’ suicide prevention hotline in 2022.

Grant coincides with Mental Health Awareness month in May.

PLAINFIELD, Ind. – When the national “988” suicide prevention hotline goes into service in 2022, Indiana’s suicide prevention call centers will be on the frontlines.

The Duke Energy Foundation has awarded a $100,000 grant to the Mental Health America–Wabash Valley Region in Lafayette to expand staffing at two call centers currently serving 87 of Indiana’s 92 counties.

A Better Way in Muncie, which operates one of the call centers, will receive half of the funding.

Last year, the Federal Communications Commission adopted rules to establish 988 as the new, nationwide, easy-to-remember 3-digit phone number for Americans in crisis to connect with suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors.

The new number will go into service in July 2022, and call volume from the higher-profile number is expected to increase demands at Indiana suicide prevention call centers.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the 10th-leading cause of death in Indiana, and the second-leading cause of death among Hoosiers aged 15 to 34.

“COVID-19 shed a light on the mental health pandemic that already existed,” said Brandi Christiansen, president and CEO of Mental Health America–Wabash Valley Region. “The pandemic created financial hardships, increased isolation and loneliness, anxiety and uncertainty. Our suicide hotlines are an important tool to get citizens the help they desperately need.”

“We have used our Foundation funding throughout the pandemic to assist our customers and the communities we serve,” said Duke Energy Indiana President Stan Pinegar. “This funding addresses mental health support – another substantial need resulting from the pandemic.”

Duke Energy Indiana and Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. In Indiana, the Foundation contributes more than $2 million annually in shareholder-funded charitable gifts funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars.

Media contact: Angeline Protogere
Office: 317.838.1338
Media line: 800.559.3853

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Duke Energy teams with ITS to offer customized virtual reality training programs for energy company workers nationwide

Wed, 12 May 2021 14:50:00 GMT

Courses can be tailored to meet each utility’s specific needs.

Training modules available for natural gas, electric, other energy companies.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) today announced it is offering virtual reality training services branded “Virtual Crew” to energy companies and contractors nationwide.

With Virtual Crew, Duke Energy can customize simulated field training and qualifications to meet each company’s specific needs, as well as offer existing virtual reality (VR) training modules. Industrial Training Services (ITS) will collaborate with Duke Energy to pair interested clients with the service and provide a compliance-tracking solution.

“The benefits of VR training are clear. With our experience in this area, Duke Energy now is uniquely positioned to offer informed, customized VR programs tailored to meet the needs of energy companies both large and small,” said Brian Weisker, chief operations officer of natural gas at Duke Energy. “ITS, with its history of providing innovative service dedicated to the energy industry, is the perfect choice to help us expand this training to energy companies nationwide.”

In addition, VR training completed in Virtual Crew will be documented just like any traditional written exam, performance evaluation or training record, thanks to integration with ITS’ learning management system, OnBoard® LMS.

“Virtual Crew is a natural extension of ITS’ history of innovation, using technology to simplify and enhance worker training,” said Stephanie Balmer, president and COO of ITS. “ITS is thrilled to work with Duke Energy to add virtual reality to our portfolio of industry-leading training and curriculum, and we look forward to future product enhancements that continue to meet the needs of the energy industry.”

Existing VR modules include natural gas leak detection surveys, line purging, joining plastic pipe and electric substation inspection. Programs also can be created for non-utility scenarios, such as active shooter response.

“Since introducing the Virtual Crew program to employees in our natural gas business unit in 2020, Duke Energy has continued to develop engaging, immersive virtual reality training,” Weisker said. “Building on that success, we’ve expanded the program to include training for the company’s electric employees.”

Duke Energy’s natural gas business unit will realize savings of approximately three hours in training time per technician per course through the use of VR, and forecasts annual savings of more than $500,000 in operational costs, including travel and instructor expenses.

Technicians trained through VR were able to perform tasks three times faster than technicians receiving classroom-based training.

Other benefits of VR training include:

An immersive and interactive experience: The user can interact with the virtual environment in lifelike simulations.

The opportunity for sensory reaction: Immersion triggers the user's emotions in addition to multiple senses, giving the sensation of reality.

Real-time feedback: Users can experience the real-time consequences of their choices in a safe environment.

Increased focus: VR uniquely focuses the user's attention on the training experience.

To learn more about the development of the VR technology behind Virtual Crew, visit Duke Energy's illumination site. Companies interested in Virtual Crew can email VirtualCrew@duke-energy.com for more information.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

ITS

Industrial Training Services, a woman-owned small business headquartered in Murray, Ky., has provided innovative training products and best-in-class support to the energy industry for over 30 years. ITS is dedicated to maintaining lasting customer relationships by providing groundbreaking and industry-proven compliance tools, training, and products to streamline complex operations and help meet safety, regulatory, and qualification standards.

ITS has been the first to market for a variety of digital products to support the pipeline industry, helping to replace cumbersome, outdated paper processes and give business leaders the peace of mind their employees are well-trained and records are secure. ITS is also approved as an Accredited Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET), demonstrating compliance with ANSI/IACET Standards and authorized to offer IACET CEUs.

ITS clients are found in all 50 states and are among the largest energy compliance providers in the nation. For more information or to contact a member of the ITS team, visit its-training.com. Follow ITS on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

Media contact: Jason Wheatley
Office: 704.731.4034
Media line: 800.559.3853

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N.C. regulators approve Duke Energy landfill solar project

Wed, 12 May 2021 12:11:00 GMT

New 5-MW solar power plant to be the company’s first on a county landfill site

Unique public-private partnership advancing renewable energy

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – North Carolina regulators recently approved Duke Energy’s 5-megawatt (MW) solar project in Buncombe County – the company’s first that will be located on a retired county landfill.

The N.C. Utilities Commission gave the project the green light to begin construction. Duke Energy and Buncombe County will team up on the project. Duke Energy will own and operate the 5-MW solar power plant located on the closed Buncombe County landfill in Woodfin – near Interstate 26 and the French Broad River.

“This innovative project enjoyed great stakeholder and local support and will continue the growth of renewable energy in North Carolina,” said Stephen De May, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president.

The plant is expected to be in service by the end of 2021 and will produce enough energy annually to power about 1,000 homes and businesses.

“The people of Buncombe County recognize climate protection as one of the most urgent issues facing our world today,” said County Board of Commission Chairman Brownie Newman. “The solar landfill project is an important part of our initial strategy to accelerate the transition to clean, renewable energy. We are excited to see it move forward.”

The new solar plant will help meet the county’s 2030 renewable energy goals, while providing energy to Duke Energy Progress customers in the Carolinas.

Sourcing its renewables from local generation was identified as a top priority during the county’s renewable energy community engagement process. This project will allow the county to reach nearly 20% of its renewable goal with locally sourced clean energy.

Background

The landfill stopped operating in 1996. To avoid disturbing the ground covering, the solar racking system will be built on concrete blocks instead of being anchored into the ground. Underground cabling will be kept to a minimum. Check out video footage of the site.

The project will be located on 25 acres and will be connected to the Duke Energy Progress power grid. Under a 25-year agreement, the county will lease the land to Duke Energy. For Buncombe County to include the solar power generated toward its 100% renewable energy goal, it will own the renewable energy certificates (REC) from the Duke Energy power plant to offset the energy used from the county’s operations. In exchange, Buncombe County is allowing Duke Energy to utilize the property at no cost.

As part of the overall Western Carolinas Modernization Project, Duke Energy finished construction of the $817 million Asheville Combined Cycle Station, which became fully operational in 2020. The new station replaced a 344-megawatt, two-unit coal plant at the Asheville site, which retired in early 2020.

The company’s efforts in the region also include increased participation in energy efficiency and conservation programs to reduce energy usage, a battery storage project in Asheville and a solar and battery microgrid system in neighboring Madison County. In total, 15 MW of solar and 5 MW of battery will be deployed in the region as part of the Western Carolinas Modernization Project.

Duke Energy is a national leader in renewable energy. It operates more than 40 solar power plants in North Carolina. The state is ranked third in the nation for overall solar generation.

About Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Randy Wheeless
24-hour: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_RandyW

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Duke Energy reports first-quarter 2021 financial results

Mon, 10 May 2021 10:34:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) today posted its first-quarter 2021 financial results in a news release available on the company's website at the following link: duke-energy.com/investors.

The call can be accessed via the investors' section (duke-energy.com/investors) of Duke Energy’s website or by dialing 800-458-4121 in the U.S. or 323-794-2093 outside the U.S. The confirmation code is 5906267. Please call in 10 to 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.

A replay of the conference call will be available until 1 p.m. ET, May 20, 2021, by calling 888-203-1112 in the U.S. or 719-457-0820 outside the U.S. and using the code 5906267. An audio replay and transcript will also be available by accessing the investors' section of the company’s website.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Catherine Butler
800.559.3853

Analysts contact: Jack Sullivan
980.373.3564

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Duke Energy announces dividend payments to shareholders

Thu, 06 May 2021 19:41:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy today declared a quarterly cash dividend on its common stock of $0.965 per share payable on June 16, 2021 to shareholders of record at the close of business May 14, 2021.

The company also declared a quarterly cash dividend on its Series A preferred stock of $359.375 per share payable on June 16, 2021 to shareholders of record at the close of business May 14, 2021. This is equivalent to $0.359375 per depositary share.

Duke Energy has paid a cash dividend on its common stock for 95 consecutive years.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Madison McDonald
800.559.3853

Analysts contact: Jack Sullivan
980.373.3564

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Clean energy transformation, customer focus drive Duke Energy, CEO tells shareholders at annual meeting

Thu, 06 May 2021 17:49:00 GMT

Lynn Good cites company’s productive collaboration with key stakeholders.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy’s ongoing clean energy transformation and intense focus on customers are driving the company’s success and growth, and will continue to do so well into the future, Chair, President and CEO Lynn Good told investors during the company’s annual shareholders meeting today.

In 2020, “we made progress toward our carbon reduction targets as we look to deliver at least a 50 percent reduction by 2030, with the ultimate goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050,” Good said. “We achieved a major milestone in 2020, surpassing 40 percent carbon reduction from 2005 levels, and introduced a net-zero methane target for 2030."

Duke Energy announced more than 700 megawatts of new solar and wind energy projects in 2020, and continued to invest in modernization of the company’s electric grid to increase service reliability and support clean energy technologies, she said.

She also highlighted the company’s 2020 electric vehicle initiatives, including investments in new customer charging infrastructure in multiple states – plus a new pledge to electrify 100 percent of the company’s own light-duty vehicles, and convert 50 percent of its medium-duty, heavy-duty and off-road vehicles to electric or other zero-carbon vehicles.

Overcoming pandemic challenges

Despite the pandemic and associated challenges, Duke Energy in 2020 continued to safely and reliably provide essential electric and natural gas service to its customers, Good said.

“Our priorities were very clear: take care of our customers and protect the health and safety of our employees. We were one of the first utilities to proactively waive certain fees and suspend disconnections for customers who were unable to pay their bills,” she said.

“We also transitioned approximately 18,000 employees to remote work and put protocols in place to keep our frontline employees safe. Our workforce showed incredible resolve as they adjusted to new working conditions, maintaining our industry-leading safety results,” Good said.

As the pandemic disrupted financial markets, Duke Energy also took immediate action to ensure the company’s financial stability through low-cost loans and an aggressive, $450-million mitigation plan, she said.

“This response allowed us to deliver financial results within our updated guidance range for 2020, and continue paying our dividend, which we have now done for 95 consecutive years.

“But what matters most is our customers. In 2020, I’m proud that we surpassed our internal customer satisfaction target by nearly 15 percent,” she said.

2021 momentum

Good also highlighted several 2021 milestones – resulting from productive collaboration with stakeholders – that have enabled the company to continue its momentum:

Coal ash settlement in North Carolina – “We reached a milestone settlement with the North Carolina Attorney General’s office, the Public Staff and the Sierra Club regarding coal ash recovery – resolving the last remaining major issues on coal ash in North Carolina, and providing clarity for customers and investors. And last month, the North Carolina Utilities Commission approved our settlement as part of our two rate cases.”
Florida rate settlement – “The Florida Public Service Commission approved our settlement with consumer and business groups on a new multiyear rate plan to recover investments in our grid, solar generation and electric vehicle infrastructure.”
Other Florida initiatives – “We also received approval of the first three years of our Storm Protection Plans in Florida, representing a $6-billion investment to harden our grid over the next 10 years, and our Clean Energy Connection program that will provide Florida customers with 750 MW of new solar by 2024. Duke Energy Florida remains a valuable part of our company, and with its constructive business and regulatory environment, we’re excited to advance our clean energy vision for the state.”
Minority investment in Duke Energy Indiana – “We announced a minority investment in Duke Energy Indiana from GIC, an experienced investor in U.S. infrastructure, that will help fund our clean energy investments and grid enhancement plans, replacing the need for equity over the next five years.”
Customer initiatives – “We began to roll out Customer Connect, our new customer information system, as we bring new services and enhancements to our customers.”

Other shareholder business

Also at today’s meeting:

Good fielded shareholder questions on a range of topics. The company also will post responses to shareholder questions on its website.
Shareholders elected all 13 nominees to the company’s board of directors, including three new board members:

Caroline Dorsa – Retired executive vice president and chief financial officer, Public Service Enterprise Group Inc.

W. Roy Dunbar – Retired Chairman and CEO of Network Solutions, LLC.

Michael Pacilio – Retired executive vice president and chief operating officer, Exelon Generation, Exelon Corp.

A nonbinding shareholder proposal – titled, “Shareholder proposal regarding independent board chair” – did not receive a majority of shareholder votes cast.
A second nonbinding shareholder proposal – titled, “Shareholder proposal regarding providing a semiannual report on Duke Energy’s political contributions and expenditures” – received a majority of shareholder votes cast.

A replay of the meeting will be posted on Duke Energy’s investors page.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Neil Nissan
800.559.3853

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Stay cool, save money as high temperatures linger in Florida

Tue, 04 May 2021 21:57:00 GMT

Duke Energy offers tools, tips to help customers manage energy use and bills during summer-like high temperatures.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – With temperatures reaching the mid-90s in parts of Florida this week, Duke Energy is providing tools and tips to help customers save energy – and money – as temperatures above seasonal norms linger.

Duke Energy Florida has sufficient resources to meet customers’ energy needs and continues to monitor its power plants, power lines and other equipment to help ensure customers receive reliable service during this time of summer-like weather.

Forecasts call for temperatures above normal early this week across the state with milder temperatures returning later this week.

Low- to no-cost energy efficiency tips

High temperatures can lead to higher energy bills as Duke Energy customers try to stay cool. Below are some tips to help manage your energy use.

Change air filters regularly. A dirty air filter makes an HVAC system work harder, which uses more energy.
Set your thermostat at the highest comfortable setting. The smaller the difference between the inside and outside temperatures, the lower your energy bill will be.
Close blinds, drapes and curtains during the hottest part of the day to keep the sun's rays from heating your house.
Use a ceiling fan in occupied rooms to supplement your air conditioning, allowing you to turn up the thermostat. Make sure the fans are set to operate in a counterclockwise direction.
Grill outdoors. Cooking in the oven and on the stovetop creates a lot of indoor heat. Help save energy by firing up the grill outdoors or prepare meals that don't require cooking.
Run your dishwasher, washing machine and dryer at night when it’s cooler. Run full loads. Consider air drying dishes and clothes to save even more.
Turn off unnecessary lights. Be sure to turn off lights when you leave a room. Lights emit heat and cause your air conditioning system to work harder.

Track your energy usage

Customers with smart meters can check online to view their daily usage. Smart meters collect usage information by the hour, so checking spikes throughout the month – by day and even hour – can show what appliances and behaviors are increasing their bills.
Videos are available for customers with smart meters to learn how to track energy usage here.
Duke Energy customers with smart meters also receive usage alerts through email and/or text halfway through their billing cycle, well before their bill arrives, with their current usage amount and a projection of what their final monthly bill could be.
Customers can also set budget alerts, so they know when their bill reaches a specific dollar amount of their choosing, allowing them to adjust their usage and help save money on their bill.
Customers without smart meters can sign up to receive high bill alerts for when adverse weather is projected to increase their electric bills by at least 30 percent and $30 compared to historical usage.

Additionally, here are tips on how to discover energy wasters in your home: https://illumination.duke-energy.com/articles/find-the-energy-wasters-lurking-in-your-house

Duke Energy Florida

Media contact: Allison Barker
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_AllisonB

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Duke Energy Florida named 'Tree Line USA' utility for 15th consecutive year

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 11:55:00 GMT

Recognition cites quality tree care, including proper trimming, pruning and planting.

Customers receive free trees in celebration of Arbor Day.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – The Arbor Day Foundation has recognized Duke Energy for its tree care practices in Florida by naming the company a Tree Line USA utility for the 15th year in a row.

The Tree Line USA Program demonstrates how trees and utilities can coexist for the benefit of communities and citizens by highlighting best management practices in public and private utility arboriculture. The program promotes the dual goals of safe, reliable electric service and abundant, healthy trees.

Trees and vegetation are part of Florida’s natural landscape and also one of the leading causes of power outages for utilities. Duke Energy has a responsibility to protect the lines that deliver power to homes and businesses across the region to ensure reliable electric service. Keeping vegetation away from lines is important to providing service.

“Receiving this award for the 15th straight year is a testament to the work our employees do to protect the environment and serve our customers,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “Planting the right tree in the right place helps conserve energy, enables us to provide safe and reliable energy, and beautifies our communities.”

Duke Energy achieved Tree Line USA status by meeting certain criteria. Utilities must follow industry standards for quality tree care, including proper trimming, pruning and planting; provide annual employee and contractor training in best practices; sponsor tree plantings and public education programs; and participate in annual Arbor Day events.

One such event is Duke Energy’s annual tree giveaway in partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation’s Energy-Saving Trees program. Customers have the opportunity to order a free tree in honor of Florida Arbor Day each January. The program helps customers conserve energy and reduce energy bills through strategic tree planting.

The trees are shipped in 1-gallon buckets directly to customers’ homes with planting and care instructions in time for National Arbor Day, which this year falls on April 30. Customers ordered about 1,100 crape myrtle, dahoon holly, little gem magnolia, red bottlebrush and sweetbay magnolia. Since 2017, the company has given away 9,851 trees to customers throughout the state.

It is important to remember that customers, property owners and untrained contractors should not prune or cut trees and plants near power lines. In addition, when planting trees near power lines, be sure to select a low-growing variety to minimize impact to the lines. Also, contact Florida 811 before digging to locate any underground utilities, which are often located in utility easements.

For more information about planning and planting vegetation around electrical facilities, please visit Duke Energy’s Right Tree Right Place website.

Duke Energy Florida

Media contact: Allison Barker
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_AllisonB

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Energy for a better tomorrow

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 17:58:00 GMT

By Katherine Neebe
Vice President of National Engagement & Strategy
Chief Sustainability Officer
President, Duke Energy Foundation

Looking back at 2020, it was a year no one will forget. From the global pandemic to a focus on racial inequity to the economic crisis, it was a year that brought challenges for so many. At the same time, I saw how powerfully businesses – particularly an essential service like ours – pivoted to transform their workforce, supply chains, and customer and community programs to meet these challenges head on. By leveraging technology, innovation and new ways of working, we held fast to our mission to provide reliable, affordable and increasingly cleaner energy. The year sharpened our focus on how we create value for our stakeholders and help solve for societal issues.

With safety at our core, in March 2020, the company took comprehensive steps to help employees, customers and communities respond to the impacts of COVID-19. Among our efforts, to help address the economic hardships our customers may be facing, we waived late payment fees and discontinued service disconnections for unpaid bills. Our company and Foundation also provided more than $8 million to support public utility assistance and basic needs such as hunger relief and micro-loans for small businesses while also strengthening the systems our communities depend upon in times of crisis.

For our employees, we implemented workplace disinfection and social distancing practices and provided workers with personal protective equipment, following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Employees leveraged technology to minimize personal contact and do our part to help mitigate the spread of the virus, including enabling nearly all customer care representatives to work from home. Beyond implementing extensive workplace safety measures, we provided resources and enhanced benefits to support our workers’ mental and physical health. This year sharpened our focus on how we create value for our stakeholders and help solve for societal issues.

The events of 2020 also illuminated the issue of systemic racism and inequity many Americans face. We continued our journey to be a more equitable, inclusive and transparent company. Across the enterprise, we held more than 500 formal conversations to hear the questions and concerns of our employees. We are focused on our diversity goals and being transparent about our progress, including releasing data contained in our consolidated 2020 EEO-1 report (filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission), along with our Sustainability Report. Through the Duke Energy Foundation, we also committed more than $2 million to social justice and racial equity organizations. However, more work is needed, and we continue to engage with local organizations and other stakeholders to understand how to be a part of the long-term solution.

Last fall, we held our inaugural ESG Investor Day, where we shared important updates on our environmental, social responsibility and governance work. You will notice this year’s Sustainability Report follows an ESG framework. I’m also excited to share that this year marks the 15th year we’ve publicly reported on our progress to address important societal issues, such as climate change.

As we look forward, there are real issues to tackle as we look at the clean energy transition and how we achieve our climate goals. We share the Biden Administration’s commitment to addressing the critically important issue of climate change and applaud the President’s leadership in moving the discussion forward through our nation’s new, ambitious goal. With respect to the power sector, we stand with the Biden Administration and Congress to achieve our shared net-zero goal, while ensuring customer reliability and affordability and lifting up our communities. And, we have the opportunity to create meaningful change through our energy transformation as well as our participation in the global climate discussion at convenings such as COP 26 in Glasgow. We will also focus on how to build resiliency and equity in a post-pandemic world.

We have listened, learned and adjusted to our customer, community and employee needs over the past year and while the crisis isn’t over, we are better positioned to support those we serve. I am excited to be part of the team that delivers a cleaner energy future for all.

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Clean generation remains Duke Energy's focus as it plans to triple renewable energy this decade

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 11:22:00 GMT

23% of energy produced by 2030 projected to be wind, solar and hydroelectric

Clean-energy transition spelled out in just-released Sustainability Report

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – By the end of this decade, renewables will make up a large portion of the company’s generation mix as Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) looks to triple the amount of renewable energy it produces from company power plants and dramatically reduce carbon emissions.

This information, along with large amounts of other data, was spelled out today in Duke Energy’s 15th Sustainability Report, the company’s annual disclosure on environment, social and governance (ESG) issues.

“Duke Energy has a clear line of sight to reduce our carbon emissions by at least 50% by 2030 and is making terrific progress to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. We’re already a leader in our industry when it comes to low-carbon intensity. This next decade will also be our biggest ever for incorporating thousands of megawatts of new renewable energy generation into our portfolio,” said Katherine Neebe, Duke Energy’s vice president, national engagement & strategy, chief sustainability officer and president, Duke Energy Foundation.

Currently, 7% of Duke Energy’s company-owned electrical output comes from wind, solar and hydroelectric plants. That figure is projected to grow to 23% by 2030.

The company is undertaking its aggressive renewable energy buildouts with wind and solar projects currently under construction in Florida, North Carolina, Oklahoma and Texas. Over the next three years, the company will also add 280 megawatts of pumped storage hydro capacity at its Bad Creek facility in South Carolina.

Duke Energy’s carbon-free generation is also helped by its six nuclear plants in the Carolinas, which produced 35% of its total electrical output in 2020.

Among the other highlights in the report:

The company is overseeing the largest coal retirement in the industry and disclosed the closing dates for its remaining coal-fired generating units. Since 2010, Duke Energy has retired 51 coal-fired units, according to a chart in the report. An additional unit was retired last month bringing the total to 52.
For the first time, Duke Energy is sharing expanded employee diversity data, which is filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Duke Energy and its Foundation donated more than $8 million to COVID-19 relief efforts during 2020, and more than $2 million was provided by the Duke Energy Foundation to social justice and racial equity organizations.
The company’s economic development team helped attract nearly 18,000 new jobs and $9.1 billion in capital investment to its service territories.
The company’s overall carbon dioxide output continues to fall – down more than 40% since 2005. The company aims to reduce its carbon emissions by at least 50% by 2030.
Duke Energy continues to offer excellent value to customers with high reliability and retail electric rates below the national average in all customer categories – residential, commercial and industrial.

Today’s report continues Duke Energy’s history of transparency and sharing progress on climate change and other ESG matters.

Yesterday, the company announced a new comprehensive brand for its nonregulated commercial renewables business – Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions.

The brand unifies products and services offered by several Duke Energy subsidiaries, including Duke Energy Renewables, REC Solar and Duke Energy One. The team will continue to leverage Duke Energy’s deep industry experience to deliver the sustainable energy solutions customers need and want while empowering them to make a measurable impact, help reduce emissions and gain resiliency.

About Duke Energy

Duke Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America’s largest energy holding companies. Its electric utilities serve 7.9 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 51,000 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas unit serves 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. The company employs 27,500 people.

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Cautionary language concerning forward-looking statements

This document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by terms and phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will," "potential," "forecast," "target," "outlook," "guidance," and similar expressions. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. These risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Duke Energy’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than Duke Energy has described. Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Media contact: Randy Wheeless
24-Hour:800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_RandyW

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Duke Energy reaches milestone with installation of nearly 2 million smart meters in Florida, giving customers more control of energy use

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 15:53:00 GMT

New meters offer customers ‘pick your due date’ and usage alerts.

Upgrades contribute to improved service during power outages.

Smart meters allow company to more easily troubleshoot power issues, complete service orders remotely.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Duke Energy has completed a multiyear effort in Florida to upgrade nearly 2 million customer meters to smart meters – digital meters that offer customers more options and improved service.

The new smart meters are part of Duke Energy's commitment to building a smarter energy future. The investment in this digital technology will help the company meet the changing needs and expectations of customers.

"Customers have told us they want more timely access to their energy usage information and bringing this technology to Florida is one way for us to better meet those expectations," said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. "Smart meters will help us identify and respond faster to customer outages and give our customers tools to help them make smart energy choices to best fit their needs."

The new meters are an evolution of the company's previous meter-reading technology and provide a number of enhanced services that offer residential and some business customers more control over their energy use. Options include opportunities to pick billing due dates and receive usage alerts. Such alerts can help customers better understand and budget for their energy consumption.

“I’m a small business owner, so I am always interested in options that can help me manage expenses,” said Mark Aeling, owner of MGA Sculpture Studio in St. Petersburg, Fla. “I like that having a smart meter will give me usage information sooner and help me to make informed choices.”

Smart meters measure and record electricity usage at regular intervals and send the data wirelessly to customers and the power company, much like how your home Wi-Fi works. Customers can access the information online by logging on to their Duke Energy Account.

Smart meter data might tell customers that the hour spent cooking on a hot Florida summer night is creating a power spike from the working oven competing with an air conditioner trying to cool things off. Or that a teenager’s hours playing video games cost more than anticipated.

Pick your due date

Pick Your Due Date offers eligible Duke Energy customers the option to select a billing due date that best aligns with their personal needs and finances to provide more flexibility and control when paying their monthly bills.

Usage alerts

Monthly energy costs can be tricky to predict. Duke Energy customers can take control of their electricity use and monthly budget with Usage Alerts. Click here to access the usage data tool.

Customers will automatically receive an email halfway through the billing cycle. The email will include the current bill amount and a projection of the final monthly bill. Customers also have the option to receive midcycle alerts via text message.

Customers also can set up budget alerts to help keep their bill in check. They will be informed when their bill is expected to reach a specific dollar amount of their choosing, allowing them to course-correct and cut back on usage if they wish. It's similar to when a cellphone provider provides a data usage update when users near their plan limits.

Remote service orders, quicker response to power outages

In addition, smart meters offer two-way communication with Duke Energy’s systems, so the company will know more about outages. This can speed response and restoration times. In the future, a smart meter may even report the outage for customers.

Fewer estimated customer bills

Smart meters are read automatically – not manually – so there's no need to estimate bills when meters can't be easily accessed, such as during severe weather. In addition, Duke Energy will not have to access a customer's property for meter reads.

Click here to learn more about smart meter technology.

Smart meter b-roll, interviews and high-resolution photography are available the Multimedia Gallery in the Duke Energy News Center:

Interview soundbites with a customer and Duke Energy spokesperson and b-roll of a smart meter installation: https://news.duke-energy.com/multimedia-gallery/videos/smart-meters

High-resolution photos of a smart meter installation: https://news.duke-energy.com/multimedia-gallery/photos/smart-meters

Duke Energy Florida

Media contact: Allison Barker
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_AllisonB

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Charlotte Area Transit System, eTransEnergy announce electric bus partnership

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 14:28:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Charlotte City Council has voted to approve a pilot program and public-private partnership between the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) and eTransEnergy, a subsidiary/affiliate of Duke Energy, to test the performance of battery electric bus (BEB) vehicles across the greater metropolitan Charlotte area.

This collaboration, which has been supported by the Bloomberg Philanthropies American Cities Climate Challenge, will kick-off a 12- to 18-month pilot program to test 18 BEB vehicles from three different manufacturers.

“eTransEnergy will support CATS with workforce training, performance data, procurement, electrical service management and installation of battery-charging infrastructure at CATS bus facilities,” said CATS CEO John Lewis.

The pilot will allow CATS to collect data and assess vehicle performance while operating across the transit system in preparation for future phases. CATS is expected to receive the battery-electric vehicles by the end of 2021. Operation of the pilot program is anticipated to begin in early 2022.

Together, the City and eTransEnergy submitted a grant application to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and was awarded a $3,723,712 Low or No (LoNo) Emissions Grant Award which will fund six of the 18 buses. The other 12 buses will be funded through CATS’ Capital Investment Program.

“We are excited to have developed a blueprint for public-private partnership with CATS to first pilot, then move to full-scale transit fleet electrification. We look forward to working with CATS and other transit authorities around the country to help them transition to clean energy transportation options,” said Greg Fields, Vice President of eTransEnergy.

The eTransEnergy BEB pilot program supports the Strategic Energy Action Plan (SEAP) which strives to have city fleet and facilities be fueled by 100 percent zero-carbon sources by 2030 and sets a community-wide goal for Charlotte to become a low carbon city by 2050.

“Since 2018, the City of Charlotte has been working to achieve the vision of a low carbon Charlotte set forth in the SEAP,” said City of Charlotte Chief Sustainability Officer Sarah Hazel. “Though 2020 brought incredible challenges on many fronts, it also highlighted the importance of this work, which is why it is so exciting to take this collaborative step towards reaching the ambitious goals we set for ourselves and our community.”

After completion of the pilot program, eTransEnergy will support the transition of CATS entire bus fleet with a selected BEB manufacturer.

“The goal of the American Cities Climate Challenge is to create more sustainable and resilient communities while unlocking the benefits of climate action. Our partnership with the City of Charlotte and Charlotte Area Transit System has initiated a foundational shift toward zero-emissions transportation and thus cleaner air for all the residents in the Charlotte region, “ said Catherine Kummer, Climate Advisor with Natural Resources Defense Council to Charlotte as part of the American Cities Climate Challenge. “Charlotte is leading by example. The City’s commitment to a full fleet of electric buses while piloting all technologies available will ensure public transit riders across the region have access to a bus system that works for them and the businesses that depend on riders being able to travel with ease and cleaner air.”

CATS will continue to release details related to the pilot as it becomes available.

Charlotte Area Transit System

Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is a department of the City of Charlotte and governed by the Metropolitan Transit Commission. CATS is the largest transit system between Washington, D.C. and Atlanta, offering bus, light rail, streetcar, vanpool and Special Transportation Services.

City of Charlotte

The City of Charlotte provides services to more than 870,000 residents. The city's priorities are workforce and business development; transportation, planning and the environment; safe communities; and great neighborhoods. Charlotte is No. 6 on U.S. News & World Report’s 150 Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2020-21. For the latest news and updates about city government, visit the citywide newsroom at charlottenc.gov/newsroom, and follow @CLTgov on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

eTransEnergy

American Cities Climate Challenge

The Bloomberg Philanthropies American Cities Climate Challenge is an initiative that empowers 25 of the largest U.S. cities to implement near-term climate goals and become primary drivers of progress towards meeting America’s pledge on climate. Recognizing that cities account for more than 70% of global carbon emissions – and that mayors have significant authority over cities’ highest emitting sectors: transportation and buildings – the Climate Challenge aims to enhance the work already being done by mayors across the U.S. and to support cities in the fight against climate change.

Media contacts:

Duke Energy – eTransEnergy
Jennifer Sharpe
Media line: 800.559.3853
Email: Jennifer.Sharpe@Duke-Energy.com

Charlotte Area Transit System
Juliann Sheldon
Email: Juliann.Sheldon@Charlottenc.gov

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Company launches Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions – offering renewable energy, resiliency solutions for commercial customers nationwide

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 12:59:00 GMT

New brand connects customers with sustainable energy solutions that inspire breakthroughs and meaningful environmental and social benefits.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) today announced the launch of Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions, a new commercial brand that unifies products and services offered by several Duke Energy subsidiaries, including Duke Energy Renewables, REC Solar and Duke Energy One, under one comprehensive brand.

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions offers customized clean energy and resilient infrastructure solutions at scale for private and public companies, government-led organizations and educational institutions nationwide. The new brand marks a significant step forward in connecting customers with innovative, future-focused sustainable energy solutions that will create real change for businesses and communities today and for years to come.

The organization leverages Duke Energy’s deep industry experience to deliver the sustainable energy solutions customers need and want, while empowering them to run stronger, more resilient operations that will help them meet their resiliency, sustainability and clean energy goals.

“We know customers are looking for energy solutions that can create real change in our communities while helping their bottom line,” said Chris Fallon, president, Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions. “We’re combining decades of experience in project development, operations and financing to design innovative solutions that fit within customers’ existing infrastructure or create new renewable energy or resiliency solutions that will address their needs and help them achieve their sustainability goals.”

From financing to planning, and construction and installation to management, Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions offers advanced technology and the latest breakthroughs to create smart and sustainable solutions, empowering companies to make a measurable impact, help reduce emissions and gain resiliency with future-focused solutions tailored to their business model, industry and specific location.

“Over the last several years, it’s become clear to us that customers would benefit from a strategic partner that can evaluate their sustainability, resiliency and ESG goals on a holistic level,” said Robert Vary, senior vice president, sales and relationship management at Duke Energy. “Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions lets us provide customers with a comprehensive approach to sustainability and resiliency, whether that be microgrid solutions, backup generation or power purchase agreements for on-premise or utility-scale solar or wind. We evaluate our customers’ needs and design unique solutions that will help meet their overall goals.”

To learn more about Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions, visit: https://sustainablesolutions.duke-energy.com

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos, videos and other materials. Duke Energy’s illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Media contact: Jennifer Garber
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy awards $1 million in grants to address pandemic learning loss in North Carolina

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 16:01:00 GMT

Funding supports summer learning and tutoring, mentorship programs for vulnerable students.

51 organizations to receive grants.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy has awarded more than $1 million to organizations across North Carolina that are helping students rebound from the effects of pandemic learning loss.

"After a difficult year for North Carolina’s students and families, we’re investing in programs that address the disproportionate learning loss among vulnerable communities and help put students on a path to academic success,” said Stephen De May, North Carolina president, Duke Energy.

Fifty-one organizations received grants from the Duke Energy Foundation to fund summer learning, tutoring and other supplemental learning opportunities in underserved and minority communities to combat learning gaps created by the pandemic.

Among this year’s recipients is Durham Public Schools (DPS), which received $25,000 to provide students with experiential outdoor learning opportunities this summer at The Hub Farm, a 30-acre farm, forest and outdoor learning center in Durham, N.C.

“This grant is going to allow DPS to continue to help students reach their limitless potential through innovative education opportunities,” said Dr. Pascal Mubenga, superintendent of DPS. “I’m excited about the way the grant will bring so many partners together to provide these breakthrough outdoor learning experiences for students who have fallen behind due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Click here for a list of grant recipients with awards greater than $10,000 or more.

These grants are part of Duke Energy’s ongoing commitment to support critical needs in the communities it serves. In 2020, Duke Energy donated $20 million in North Carolina, with more than 450 grants focused on social justice and racial equity, COVID-19 relief, K-12 education, workforce and nature.

Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts, and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information about the Foundation can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

Media contact: Meredith Archie
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy Florida, Tampa Bay Rays team up to boost Energy Neighbor Fund

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 17:14:00 GMT

Company donates $1,000 for every winning game.

Together, we can make a difference and help those who need it most.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – When the Tampa Bay Rays win a game this season, it’s a home run for Florida fans.

Duke Energy will contribute $1,000 to Energy Neighbor Fund agencies for every Tampa Bay Rays regular season win.

“We want to ease the cost of sizzling summer heat for Floridians who struggle to keep their homes cool while making ends meet,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “Together with the Tampa Bay Rays, we can make a difference in the communities we serve and help those who need it most through the Energy Neighbor Fund.”

The Energy Neighbor Fund is a customer assistance program to help Florida residents in need pay for utility expenses such as electric, gas, oil or wood. Donations are matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $500,000, by the Duke Energy Foundation.

One hundred percent of funds collected are distributed locally, by county, on a monthly basis to 14 United Way and other social service agencies to assist Duke Energy Florida customers, based on need.

“The Rays are proud to work with Duke Energy Florida and help support the Energy Neighbor Fund,” said Rays President Brian Auld. “This is an important opportunity to give back to the Tampa Bay community and help families with their essential needs during difficult times.”

Residents who need financial assistance are encouraged to visit www.duke-energy.com/NeighborFund to locate available resources.

Duke Energy Florida

Tampa Bay Rays

The Tampa Bay Rays mission is to energize the community through the magic of Rays baseball. The organization is committed to building a strong community bond through meaningful interactions and charitable donations, and has proudly represented Major League Baseball since 1998.

Media contacts:

Duke Energy

Ana Gibbs
Cell: 813.928.7263
Media line: 800.559.3853

Tampa Bay Rays

Rafaela Amador
Office: 727.825.3236

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Duke Energy to hold annual shareholders meeting online May 6

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 15:25:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) will hold its annual shareholders meeting online on Thursday, May 6, at 12:30 p.m. ET.

Duke Energy Chair, President and CEO Lynn Good will provide an overview of the company's 2020 performance and strategy for the future.

Shareholders will be able to participate in the meeting, vote on company and shareholder proposals, and submit questions.

Questions will be answered either during the meeting or afterward through a web posting.

Information about how shareholders can access the meeting online or by phone is available in Duke Energy's proxy statement. Google Chrome is the recommended browser for online access.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities – with goals of at least a 50 percent carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Media contact: Neil Nissan
800.559.3853

Analysts contact: Jack Sullivan
980.373.3564

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Duke Energy Renewables, AT&T offer $20,000 in scholarships to support diverse wind technology workforce in Oklahoma

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 14:20:00 GMT

Scholarships will be awarded to High Plains Technology Center students enrolled in wind technology program in 2021 and 2022 semesters.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. and DALLAS – Duke Energy Renewables, through the Duke Energy Foundation, and AT&T today announced $20,000 in student scholarships to High Plains Technology Center in Woodward, Okla., for students interested in pursuing wind turbine technology careers.

The Duke Energy Foundation awarded $10,000 to establish the Duke Energy Renewables Wind Energy Scholarship and AT&T contributed $10,000 as part of AT&T’s Renewable Energy Scholarship program. The mission of both programs is to establish a more diverse renewable energy workforce and create pathways to sustainable careers, especially among women and people of color.

“As commercial wind energy continues to grow across the country, creating a well-trained, diverse workforce of wind technicians to manage facilities and technology is more important than ever,” said Chris Fallon, president of Duke Energy Renewables. “We’re proud to support individuals interested in entering the renewable energy field, which will bring new talent and ideas to the industry.”

“As AT&T works toward carbon neutrality across our operations by 2035, we invest not only in renewable energy, but also in the people who bring clean power to the grid,” said Charlene Lake, Chief Sustainability Officer and SVP-Corporate Social Responsibility at AT&T. “Since 2018, our scholarships have been an important source of support for the next generation of renewable energy leaders in the places where we buy clean energy. AT&T is excited to focus this round of scholarship funding on individuals traditionally underrepresented in the wind workforce, including women and people of color.”

The amount of wind energy connected to the grid has reached over 122 gigawatts in the U.S., resulting in the creation of thousands of new wind turbine technician positions – one of the fastest-growing jobs in the U.S. While the field continues to grow, the diversity of individuals employed within has lagged. Racial and ethnic minorities and women are underrepresented compared to the U.S. population as a whole, making up only 31% and 25%, respectively, of the wind energy workforce, according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Duke Energy Renewables and AT&T share the desire to narrow the opportunity gap for these individuals and are committed to providing the resources needed to bring more diversity to the field.

“This scholarship opportunity is another example that exemplifies how paramount renewable energy is for the United States and the importance of diversifying this growing career field. Having two powerful companies like Duke Energy Renewables and AT&T support these efforts shows the importance of change in one of the fastest job growth industries,” said Taylor Burnett, assistant superintendent, Business and Industry Services, High Plains Technology Center. “I know these scholarships will have an influence on our students’ lives, which in turn will have an impact on the future of renewable energy.”

Duke Energy Renewables and AT&T both support a cleaner energy future and renewable energy job creation in very meaningful ways. Duke Energy Renewables currently operates over 4,300 MW of wind and solar generation across the country. AT&T, as one of the largest corporate purchasers of renewable energy in the U.S., has invested in over 1.5 gigawatts of renewable energy through virtual power purchase agreements, including a 15-year agreement for 160 MW of Duke Energy Renewables’ most recent and largest wind site – 350-MW Frontier II in Kay County, Okla.

“Building and maintaining a cleaner energy future is a top priority and High Plains Technology Center is uniquely positioned to train the next generation of renewable energy technicians. We’re pleased to be able to work with AT&T and the center’s administration to help build a qualified workforce that can help achieve these goals,” said Fallon.

For more information about the Duke Energy Renewables Wind Energy scholarship or the AT&T Renewable Energy Scholarship through High Plains Technology Center, visit High Plains Technology Center’s Wind Training Program here.

Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information about the Foundation and its Powerful Communities program can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

Duke Energy Renewables

Duke Energy Renewables, a unit of Duke Energy Corporation, operates wind and solar generation facilities across the U.S., with a total electric capacity of nearly 4,000 megawatts of nonregulated renewable energy. The power is sold to electric utilities, electric cooperatives, municipalities, and commercial and industrial customers. The unit also operates energy storage and microgrid projects. Visit Duke Energy Renewables for more information. Duke Energy Corporation is one of the nation's top renewable energy providers, on track to operate or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity – nonregulated and regulated combined – by 2025.

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) is a Fortune 150 company – and one of the largest energy holding companies in the U.S. – headquartered in Charlotte, N.C. It employs 29,000 people and has an electric generating capacity of 51,000 megawatts through its regulated utilities, in addition to Duke Energy Renewables’ nonregulated capacity.

Duke Energy was named to Fortune’s 2020 “World’s Most Admired Companies” list and Forbes’ “America’s Best Employers” list. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos, videos and other materials. Duke Energy’s illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

AT&T philanthropy and social innovation 

Stand for Equality is one of our core values at AT&T, and it’s the driving force behind our goal to make D&I both a business and a moral imperative, inside and outside our walls.

Our society doesn't work if it doesn't work equally for all. We recognize that inequalities are pervasive, and we have a role to play in helping to address them. That’s why we’re committed to advancing education, creating opportunities, strengthening communities and improving lives, particularly amongst historically underserved populations. We have a long history of investing in projects that promote academic and economic achievement and addressing community needs that promote social justice and racial equality. With a financial commitment of more than $600 million through AT&T Aspire since 2008, AT&T has leveraged technology, relationships and social innovation to help give people – regardless of age, gender, race or socioeconomic status – the opportunity to succeed.

Media contact: Jennifer Garber
800.559.3853

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Happy Earth Day! Duke Energy and partners work to restore habitat at Florida’s Lake George

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 19:18:00 GMT

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Lake George and Silver Glen Springs in Marion County, Fla., are getting an aquatic habitat boost during the week of Earth Day.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the U.S. Forest Service and Duke Energy are leading a freshwater habitat restoration project this week with assistance from the St. Johns River Water Management District, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The team is planting more than 5,000 new freshwater eelgrass plants in the shallow areas in Lake George and Silver Glen Springs.

Lake George, the second largest lake in Florida, historically had thousands of acres of submersed plants. However, in recent years, hurricanes Matthew and Irma wiped out much of the aquatic vegetation.

The project is made possible with funding from the FWC and in-kind eelgrass donations and technical assistance from Duke Energy via the nonprofit Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida.

“This important work will jumpstart habitat restoration for many sportfish species and other wildlife in Lake George,” said Eric Sutton, FWC executive director. “We celebrate these exceptional partnerships that help enhance Florida’s natural places for future generations to enjoy.”

In addition to providing food and habitat for a variety of fish and wildlife species, eelgrass, a native aquatic plant species, can enhance water quality. Since 2014, Duke Energy has provided more than 8 million aquatic plants like eelgrass for restoration projects in Florida. The plants are grown at the company’s Mariculture Center at the Crystal River Energy Complex, about 85 miles north of Tampa.

“Duke Energy is proud to join with community organizations to responsibly manage and restore our waterways and natural resources,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “From eelgrass to sea turtles, we continuously look for sustainable ways to more effectively protect Florida’s native species and their habitats and be good environmental stewards.”

“For many animals, habitat loss is a major threat,” said Andrew Walker, Foundation President & CEO of the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida. “We’re elated that Duke Energy has stepped forward in what we hope is a long-term partnership to reverse this threat in Florida’s ecosystems.”

Three varieties of eelgrass are being planted to increase the likelihood they will take root. The newly planted areas will be protected with fenced enclosures until the eelgrass becomes established. The enclosures will be marked by tall PVC pipes with reflective markings.

For general waterbody information, fishing forecasts, virtual tours, plant control operation schedules and annual workplans, boat ramp information, and more, visit the “What’s Happening on My Lake” website at MyFWC.com/Lakes.

The FWC and partners continually work together to enhance and restore fish and wildlife habitat in Florida. For more information about the FWC’s Aquatic Habitat Conservation and Restoration projects, visit MyFWC.com/WildlifeHabitats, click on “Habitat,” then “Aquatic Habitat Conservation and Restoration.”

Since 1994, the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida has raised and given away more than $50 million in grants to the FWC and many other public and private partners.

Duke Energy’s Mariculture Center supports recreational fishing and the environmental health of the Gulf of Mexico by cultivating and releasing more than 4 million fish and crustaceans into the gulf. Since opening in 1991, the center has become one of the most successful marine-stocking programs in Florida.

The center also grows submerged aquatic vegetation, such as freshwater eelgrass and saltwater marsh species including mangroves and cordgrass. Since 2014, the center has provided more than 8 million individual plants for springs and lake restoration projects as well as living shoreline projects along the Florida Panhandle and Nature Coast.

Media contacts:

Duke Energy

Allison Barker
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_AllisonB

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Michelle Kerr
Phone: 727-282-7642
Email: Michelle.Kerr@MyFWC.com

Carli Segelson
Phone: 772-215-9459
Email: Carli.Segelson@MyFWC.com

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Duke Energy responds to North Carolina Utilities Commission’s decision on Duke Energy Progress’ 2019 rate request

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 19:44:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy issued the following statement in response to today’s order by the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) on the rate adjustment request made by Duke Energy Progress on Oct. 30, 2019.

Duke Energy worked with the NCUC, the North Carolina Public Staff, and other groups last spring to postpone the rate case proceedings due to the pandemic.

The company has taken numerous additional steps over the past year to support customers through suspension of disconnections, flexible payment arrangements and more than $20 million in charitable giving across the state.

The full NCUC order can be found here.

Duke Energy statement

We are currently evaluating the North Carolina Utilities Commission’s order on Duke Energy Progress’ 2019 rate request and will determine the exact impacts on customer rates in the coming weeks. Our investments over the past several years have helped transition the state to cleaner energy sources, while keeping energy affordable and reliable for customers.

We are pleased with the NCUC’s approval of the settlement agreements between Duke Energy and more than 10 diverse customer and environmental groups as a part of this transparent and thorough process. The result is a decision that balances the needs of customers and the company.

The NCUC’s order:

Approves Duke Energy’s settlement with the Attorney General, N.C. Public Staff and Sierra Club, which will reduce the amount of coal ash management costs recovered in customer rates and provide clarity on coal ash in North Carolina for the next decade.
Approves Duke Energy’s settlement with 10 diverse stakeholders for future grid improvements to strengthen the grid, improve reliability and enable more renewable energy. These costs will be evaluated in future rate requests. Also approves a Climate Risk & Resilience Working Group to assess impacts of climate change on distribution and transmission infrastructure.
Determines that all storm costs incurred due to hurricanes Florence, Michael and Dorian and winter storm Diego were reasonable and prudent, which allows the company to seek securitization for these costs in order to provide savings to customers.
Eliminates direct debit and credit card bill-paying fees for residential customers and adopts Duke Energy’s proposal on broad stakeholder workshops to evaluate rate design and additional regulatory programs and protections for low-income customers, including a potential income-qualified energy efficiency pilot program.
Directs Duke Energy’s shareholders to contribute $6 million over two years to the Helping Home Fund to provide energy- and cost-saving measures to North Carolina customers, and $5 million over two years to the Duke Energy Progress Energy Neighbor Fund program to provide billing assistance to low-income customers.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of the largest energy holding companies in the U.S. It employs 29,000 people and has an electric generating capacity of 51,000 megawatts through its regulated utilities and 2,300 megawatts through its nonregulated Duke Energy Renewables unit.

Duke Energy is transforming its customers’ experience, modernizing the energy grid, generating cleaner energy and expanding natural gas infrastructure to create a smarter energy future for the people and communities it serves. The Electric Utilities and Infrastructure unit’s regulated utilities serve 7.8 million retail electric customers in six states: North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. The Gas Utilities and Infrastructure unit distributes natural gas to 1.6 million customers in five states: North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. The Duke Energy Renewables unit operates wind and solar generation facilities across the U.S., as well as energy storage and microgrid projects.

Media contact: Meredith Archie
800.559.3853

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Four Indiana counties selected for Duke Energy’s 2021 Site Readiness Program to spur economic development, jobs

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 14:33:00 GMT

Carroll, Clark, Posey, Tippecanoe counties chosen.

PLAINFIELD, Ind. – If a community or region wants to improve and grow its economy, it takes a long-term, dedicated effort by a team of people who are committed to doing what it takes to make that growth a reality.

So again this year, Duke Energy Indiana has selected four communities to participate in the company’s 2021 Site Readiness Program to identify, evaluate and improve locations in its 69-county service territory for potential industrial development. The economic development organizations involved will each receive $10,000 from Duke Energy to help implement the recommendations.

The four locations are:

An 89.90-acre site in Camden (Carroll County).
A 175-acre site in Charlestown (Clark County).
A 46.5-acre site in Poseyville (Posey County).
A 150-acre site in West Lafayette (Tippecanoe County).

“Economic development is a team sport,” said Erin Schneider, Indiana director of economic development for Duke Energy. “So, we work closely over the long term with our local and regional economic development partners to help bring about lasting economic improvements for each community.”

A nationally recognized site selection firm, Site Selection Group (SSG), will evaluate and make specific recommendations for further developing the sites for business attraction. In addition to the conceptual drawings for all four sites, Banning Engineering of Plainfield will review and present its recommendations for the sites located in Carroll and Posey counties.

At the conclusion of the program, SSG and Banning will present their findings for each site – including conceptual drawings – to local economic development officials.

After each site’s state of readiness has advanced, Duke Energy’s business development team will strategically market those sites nationwide to companies looking to expand or relocate their operations.

Ideal properties for Duke Energy’s Site Readiness Program are typically 40 acres or larger, served by the utility, or a vacant industrial building of at least 20,000 square feet identified to support renewed industrial growth and sustainable development in a community.

Duke Energy Indiana’s overall economic development program has been consistently named by Site Selection magazine as one of the nation’s “Top 10 Utility Economic Development Programs.” Since 2008, the company has been part of state and community efforts to help secure more than 31,000 job commitments and a total capital investment of more than $7.5 billion.

For more information about Duke Energy Indiana’s economic development programs, visit locationindiana.com.

About Duke Energy

Media contact: Lew Middleton
Cell: 317.474.7448
Media line: 800.559.3853

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Duke Energy celebrates the power behind the power on National Lineworker Appreciation Day

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 13:39:00 GMT

April 18 spotlights lineworkers’ role in powering lives of millions of people across U.S.

Duke Energy lineworkers battled record-breaking 2020 Atlantic hurricane season with 8 deployments.

Line technicians play critical role in building stronger, smarter, cleaner energy grid to serve customers.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy celebrates the power behind the power on National Lineworker Appreciation Day on April 18. The annual recognition spotlights lineworkers' role in powering the lives of millions of people across the U.S.

Whether perched in a bucket or scaling a towering pole, their work ensures that electricity keeps flowing to power vital infrastructure from hospitals, schools and water treatment facilities to businesses, industries and our everyday energy needs at home.

Their jobs are not for the faint-hearted.

“While the view from the top of the pole may change each day, the essential service lineworkers provide has not,” said Scott Batson, senior vice president and chief distribution officer. “Powering our customers and communities is the most important job we have, and I am proud of the unwavering commitment of our lineworkers serving on the front lines throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, even when severe weather struck.”

Record-breaking hurricane season

Duke Energy lineworkers battled a record-breaking Atlantic hurricane season with eight hurricane deployments to restore outages in the company’s service areas, as well as neighboring utilities across the nation the past year. Crews also tackled outages from high winds and ice storms, often working in extreme conditions to restore service to customers.

“As severe weather has increased in frequency and intensity, line technicians serve an increasingly essential role in maintaining reliable service every day, improving resiliency to restore service faster, and enabling cleaner energy options and a lower carbon future for customers,” added Batson.

Building grid of the future

Lineworkers have not only kept the power flowing to our customers and communities, and supported neighboring utilities – they’ve also continued to build the energy grid of the future.

Lineworkers are installing self-healing technology that automatically detects power outages and automatically reroutes power when outages occur. This smart technology helps reduce the number of outages and the duration of an outage, by restoring power often in less than a minute. Over the next few years, Duke Energy expects to install enough self-healing technology to serve most customers.

Crews are also upgrading poles and lines that are stronger, making our system more resistant to severe weather, and placing outage-prone lines underground. The reliability improvements we are making in our service areas will improve the grid and better serve customers.

As grid improvement work continues, line technician training programs and jobs can be found here: www.duke-energy.com/lineworker

More than 7,800 Duke Energy and contract lineworkers are part of the Duke Energy team. They are responsible for constructing, operating and maintaining equipment and more than 300,000 miles of power lines in Duke Energy's service territories – that is enough to wrap around the Earth 12 times.

Those who wish to honor lineworkers and their families are encouraged to use the hashtag #ThankALineworker on social media.

For more information about Duke Energy's lineworkers, follow @DukeEnergy and visit facebook.com/DukeEnergy.

Lineworker b-roll, interviews and photography are available here:

And, for a letter from a lineman to his wife serving from the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic, visit illumination here.

Duke Energy

Media contact: 800.559.3853

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How much can you save driving a new EV? Duke Energy helps you crunch the numbers.

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 12:30:00 GMT

New online tool calculates savings from electric vehicle vs. gasoline-powered vehicle

Website also showcases electric vehicles currently on market

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – An electric vehicle (EV) will help you lower emissions released into the environment. But can it also save you money?

Duke Energy’s Electric Vehicle Savings Calculator lets drivers make individual cost comparisons between driving their current vehicle and driving an all-electric vehicle.

“Drivers want specific information about the operational savings they can see if they switch to an electric vehicle,” said Brita Formato, Duke Energy’s managing director, Electrification Transportation. “We designed this online tool so drivers can make an apples-to-apples comparison with good information about the benefits of driving electric.”

To use the tool, drivers need to:

Estimate the miles they drive on a typical day
Have a good idea about the miles per gallon their current vehicle gets
Know the average price they are paying for a gallon of gasoline

To provide an accurate savings figure, the tool will factor in the price of additional electricity drivers are using when charging at home – since 80% of EV charging takes place at home.

Today, there are more than 1.7 million EVs on U.S. roads. The Edison Electric Institute and the Institute for Electric Innovation estimate this number will grow to 18 million EVs by 2030.

Variety is picking up, too. According to Edmunds, the online resource for automotive information, 30 EVs from 21 brands will become available for sale this year – compared to 17 vehicles from 12 brands in 2020.

Supporting the transition to EVs

Duke Energy is a major supporter of electric vehicles. It has already launched ambitious programs to expand EV charging both internally at Duke Energy locations and externally through several utility pilot programs. An internal “Electrify By Example” initiative is starting with an effort to install workplace chargers at all work locations to enable employees to drive electric.

In Florida, the company's Park and Plug pilot has installed more than 570 EV public charging stations throughout the state. Fifty of the 570 are fast-charging stations connecting areas of Florida previously underserved by EV fast-charging infrastructure. To date, drivers have used the Park and Plug network for more than 65,000 charging sessions, displacing more than 100,000 gallons of gasoline.

Regulatory action in 2020 led to pilot programs being approved in both North Carolina and South Carolina. The pilot programs will lead to full fast charging for all types of EVs in about 20-30 minutes.

In North Carolina, a $25 million pilot program will lead to the installation of 200 public Level 2 and fast-charging stations, additional stations at multifamily buildings and a school bus electrification pilot that will allow school districts to change out diesel buses with electric ones.

About Duke Energy

Contact: Randy Wheeless
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_RandyW

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Duke Energy to announce first-quarter 2021 financial results on May 10

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 13:32:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy will announce its first-quarter 2021 financial results at 7 a.m. ET on Monday, May 10, in a news release to be posted on the company's website at duke-energy.com/investors.

An earnings conference call for analysts is scheduled from 10 to 11 a.m. ET that day to discuss first-quarter 2021 financial results and other business and financial updates.

The conference call will be hosted by Lynn Good, chair, president and chief executive officer, and Steve Young, executive vice president and chief financial officer.

The call can be accessed via the investors' section (duke-energy.com/investors) of Duke Energy’s website or by dialing 800-458-4121 in the U.S. or 323-794-2093 outside the U.S. The confirmation code is 5906267. Please call in 10 to 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is transforming its customers’ experience, modernizing the energy grid, generating cleaner energy and expanding natural gas infrastructure to create a smarter energy future for the people and communities it serves. The Electric Utilities and Infrastructure unit’s regulated utilities serve 7.8 million retail electric customers in six states: North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. The Gas Utilities and Infrastructure unit distributes natural gas to 1.6 million customers in five states: North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. The Duke Energy Renewables unit operates wind and solar generation facilities across the U.S., as well as energy storage and microgrid projects.

Media contact: Madison McDonald
800.559.3853

Analysts contact: Jack Sullivan
980.373.3564

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Duke Energy awards $653,000 in education-related grants in Florida

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 15:21:00 GMT

Grants fund science, technology, engineering and math education, and other innovative programs.

23 nonprofit organizations to receive awards.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Duke Energy is investing $653,000 in educational grants to empower students and educators in Florida.

Twenty-three grants, awarded from the Duke Energy Foundation, will enhance educational programs focused on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), as well as diversity, equity and inclusion awareness.

"Building a brighter future begins with providing students with the best education and opportunities for success," said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. "These grants are an investment in our communities and will strengthen and support those who are educating our next generation.”

Among this year’s recipients is the Pinellas Education Foundation, which received $180,000 in continuing support of the STEM Academy Program. The academy fosters STEM content knowledge and workforce skill development for students in grades 2-12 using an extended school day and summer camp offerings. The program is free and open to any Pinellas County student, focusing on under-represented, low-income and diverse students.

“Engaging students in STEM education at all levels develops strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” said Stacy Baier, CEO of the Pinellas Education Foundation. “We are grateful to Duke Energy’s investment in afterschool STEM programs, which gives students greater opportunities to learn and explore the intersections of science, technology, engineering and math.”

Grant recipients, programs, awards

Statewide

Consortium of Florida Education Foundations Inc. – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Professional Development for Florida’s Local Education Foundations ($45,000).

Florida Education Foundation – Florida STEAMposium ($45,000).

Greater Tampa Bay area

Pinellas Education Foundation – STEM Academy Program ($180,000).

Polk Education Foundation and Business Partnership – Instead of PPE, We’re Focusing on EEE! (Energy, Engineering and Environmental Studies) ($40,000).

Citrus County Education Foundation Inc. – Foundation for Success Projects ($36,000).

Pasco Education Foundation Inc. – Pasco Energy and Marine Center ($25,000).

Young Men’s Christian Association Inc., Citrus County – YMCA Summer Readers Program ($4,000).

Greater Orlando area

Foundation for Orange County Public Schools Inc. – 2021-2022 Teacher Impact Grants Program ($50,000).

Orlando Science Center – Impactful STEM Fieldtrips ($45,000).

Foundation for Seminole County Public Schools – Enhancing STEM Opportunities for Students in Seminole County ($40,000).

Futures Inc. – EnviroSTEM 2022 ($30,000).

A Gift for Teaching – Pencil Boys Program ($10,000).

Educational Foundation of Lake County Inc. – Closing the Equity Gap through Engineering Pathways ($10,000).

Sumter Schools Enhancement Foundation – Sumter Vision for Success ($6,000).

Highlands County Education Foundation – STEM Mini-Grants for Energy, Engineering or Environmental Education ($5,000).

Orange County Library System – Summer Reading Program Outreach to Overcome COVID Divide ($5,000).

Greater Tallahassee/Gainesville area

Public Education Foundation of Marion County – Every Cloud has a Silver Lining ($20,000).

Education Foundation of Gulf County Inc. – Supercharged STEM: Advanced Drone Construction ($12,000).

Madison County Foundation for Excellence in Education – Science STEMulation ($10,000).

Levy County Schools Foundation Inc. – Bridging the Gap ($10,000).

The Education Foundation of Alachua County Inc. – Take Stock Summer Engineering Camp ($9,000).

Jefferson County Education Foundation – Energizing Education for Everyone ($8,000).

Lafayette Penny Foundation Inc. – Science is Growing! ($8,000).

Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information about the Foundation and its Powerful Communities program can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

Media contact: Allison Barker
Media line: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_AllisonB

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Duke Energy, Wells Fargo, NextEra Energy Resources join forces on major solar expansion in North Carolina

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 12:15:00 GMT

Bank takes advantage of Duke Energy’s Green Source Advantage program

58-megawatt solar power plant planned for Catawba County

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Wells Fargo has become the latest large energy user to execute a renewable power agreement under Duke Energy’s Green Source Advantage (GSA) program – building on the solar expansion in North Carolina.

Wells Fargo will purchase more than 58 megawatts (MW) of solar capacity from the Blackburn Solar project, a planned facility on 600 acres in Catawba County. It will be developed, owned and operated by a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC. Subject to local and state approvals, the project is scheduled to come online as early as 2022. The power generated will offset about 50 percent of the bank’s energy usage in the state.

“As large energy users look to expand their sustainability goals, many are finding Duke Energy’s Green Source Advantage program the perfect fit to accomplish that,” said Stephen De May, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president. “The program’s flexibility allows the customer to modify it to best suit their needs. Our state benefits by reducing carbon emissions and using more renewable energy.”

“The development of renewable energy projects close to employee and customer centers is one way Wells Fargo is working to meet our net-zero greenhouse gas emissions goal in a way that also contributes to the communities where we live and work. Investing in solar energy development in North Carolina will support job creation, tax revenue, reduced carbon emissions, and grid resiliency,” said Nate Hurst, head of Social Impact and Sustainability at Wells Fargo. “We appreciate the collaboration with Duke and NextEra to advance our enterprise sustainability goals in a way that benefits the local economy.”

“We’re excited to work with Duke Energy and Wells Fargo to provide more affordable, renewable energy through the Green Source Advantage program,” said Matt Handel, senior vice president of development for NextEra Energy Resources. “The Blackburn Solar project will also provide significant benefits to the economy, creating good-paying construction jobs and generating millions of dollars in additional tax revenue for the local community.”

The Green Source Advantage program is a result of 2017’s solar legislation in North Carolina. The GSA program allows large customers to offset their power purchases by securing renewable energy from projects connected to the Duke Energy grid. The customer may keep the renewable energy certificates (RECs) of the projects to satisfy sustainability or carbon-free goals.

A similar Duke Energy program is now available in South Carolina.

Participation in Green Source Advantage means Wells Fargo will participate in the development of a new renewable energy source. Wells Fargo and NextEra Energy Resources agreed on the specific project and additional costs associated with energy from the facility.

Duke Energy’s GSA program made 600 MW of capacity available for large Duke Energy customers in North Carolina. A substantial portion of the available capacity has already been taken by the city of Charlotte, Bank of America and Duke University in previously announced projects.

Duke Energy maintains more than 3,500 MW of solar power on its energy grid in North Carolina, which could power about 700,000 homes and businesses at peak output. The company also operates more than 40 solar facilities in the state. North Carolina currently ranks No. 3 in the nation for overall solar power.

About Duke Energy

Media contact: Randy Wheeless
Office: 704.382.8379
24-hour: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_RandyW

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Duke Energy awards $90,000 in Marketing Partnership Program grants to 18 Indiana economic development groups

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 18:39:00 GMT

PLAINFIELD, Ind. – Duke Energy has awarded $90,000 to 18 Indiana economic development groups for the 2021 Marketing Partnership Program. Each group was awarded $5,000.

“Duke Energy is committed to strengthening collaborative efforts with our local and regional economic development partners,” said Erin Schneider, Indiana director of economic development for Duke Energy. “These grants provide those partners with resources to fund marketing and strategic efforts that result in new jobs and investments in the communities we serve.”

To qualify for program consideration, each applicant must submit a plan that has a direct impact on the community’s economic growth and supports Duke Energy’s economic development goals. Grant funding does not include travel, lodging, food and beverage and entertainment expenses.

Examples of how these grants may be used include:

Opportunities to increase awareness of a community or region’s economic development strategies and product availability.

Tours and special events to promote business sites and communities.

Marketing campaigns and promotional materials.

Economic development organizations receiving the 2021 grants include:

Aspire Economic Development + Chamber Alliance, Inc. (Johnson County).

City of Fishers Economic Development Office (Hamilton County).

City of Noblesville Economic Development Office (Hamilton County).

East Central Indiana Regional Partnership.

Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance, Inc. (Howard County).

Grow Wabash County.

Hancock County Economic Development Council.

Huntington County United Economic Development Corporation.

Invest Hamilton County.

Jackson County Industrial Development Corporation.

Jennings County Economic Development Commission.

Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership.

Orange County Economic Development Partnership.

Purdue Research Foundation, Economic Development Office (Tippecanoe County).

Rush County Economic and Community Development.

South Central Indiana Economic Development Group.

Success Warrick County.

Vermillion Rise Mega Park (Vermillion County).

Duke Energy Indiana

Media contact: Lew Middleton
Cell: 317.474.7448
Media line: 800.559.3853

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Duke Energy to provide $500,000 in grants for North Carolina small business revitalization

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 14:43:00 GMT

Hometown Revitalization grants will provide funding for 20 local microgrant programs.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for small businesses across North Carolina.

To support community needs, the Duke Energy Foundation today announced $500,000 in funding to help local businesses – from restaurants to retailers – pivot to accommodate the changing environment through the Hometown Revitalization Grant Program.

“Small businesses are the heart of our communities, and they care for the needs of citizens across the state – including our customers and employees,” said Stephen De May, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president. “These grants will help businesses and storefronts in North Carolina recover from a difficult year and help position them for a more prosperous future.”

Hometown Revitalization grants will be awarded in 20 communities across the state. Each community will be awarded $25,000 through a partnership with a local 501c3-administering nonprofit. The administering nonprofit will establish a small business support microgrant program to deploy the funding to their local small business community. Microgrants may range from $500 to $2,500 per individual business.

The grant application is open now through May 31 and is available at duke-energy.com/hometown. Grant decisions will be announced in August.

The Hometown Revitalization Grant Program is inspired by a recent collaboration with the Downtown Raleigh Alliance and Duke Energy that provided nearly 100 grants to downtown Raleigh storefronts. The grants allowed these establishments the opportunity to create outdoor seating and serving opportunities, develop e-commerce websites, repair window fronts, and upgrade health and safety elements.

"Receiving a grant from the Duke Energy Foundation through the Downtown Raleigh Alliance gave us the opportunity - and budget - to run a highly focused marketing campaign during the holiday season centered around customized gift boxes,” shared Emily Grey, owner of The Flourish Market in Downtown Raleigh. “This was a creative idea we knew would excite our customers and help sustain our business, but because of the pandemic, we did not have the needed start-up capital for the launch.”

Grey added, “What was most meaningful about being a grant recipient is that my fellow business owners in the streets around me also received grants. I’m grateful that Duke Energy’s approach is to build up communities, and their team has been a great example to me of what it looks like to be a good steward of my resources."

Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts, and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information about the Foundation can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

Media contact: Meredith Archie
800.559.3853

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Ready to dig? During National Safe Digging Month, Duke Energy reminds customers to call 811 first

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 15:32:00 GMT

Calling 811 helps prevent injuries, outages and costly repairs, keeping everyone safer.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Spring is here and people are excited to get outdoors to plant trees, shrubs and flowers, as well as begin those outdoor construction projects that make homes more comfortable.

Can you dig it?

Yes, you can. But first, make an important call to 811, the national “Call Before You Dig” hotline and ask that the underground utilities on your property be properly located and marked.

“Calling 811 before digging anywhere prevents damage to underground utilities, prevents potential personal injury and avoids electric and other utility outages,” said Scott Batson, Duke Energy senior vice president and chief distribution officer. “It also helps avoid costly repairs for the offenders.”

Calling 811 is a free nationwide service. Contractors, homeowners, businessowners and anyone preparing for a digging project of any kind should call 811 at least three business days before digging begins. The local utilities will then send a crew to mark underground lines in the area (electric, natural gas, water, sewer, phone, cable TV and others) with above-ground stakes, flags or paint, which indicates restricted areas before a customer begins a digging project.

In 2019, the U.S. Common Ground Alliance reported approximately 532,000 excavation-related damage events in the U.S., an increase of 14 percent from 2018, the latest year for which figures are available. Estimated damages in 2019 total approximately $30 billion in direct and indirect losses.

In 2020, Duke Energy reported approximately 2,800 damage-causing dig-in events in its six-state electric service territory.

For more information about the national system and about the 811 office in your state, visit call811.com.

To see a video that shows how to use 811 click here. For additional information, see our story on illumination.

Duke Energy

Media contact: 800.559.3853

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Piedmont Natural Gas requires contractors to adopt new safe digging program; reports fewer damages to its underground facilities

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 15:54:00 GMT

April is National Safe Digging Month.

Digging before calling 811 to have underground utility lines marked can be dangerous, costly.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Even as damages to underground utility lines across the nation rise, Piedmont Natural Gas is reporting an 8% decrease in the Carolinas and Tennessee. The company credits new damage prevention initiatives and increased public awareness campaigns.

Piedmont reported approximately 200 fewer damages to its underground lines in 2020 than in 2019. This success coincides with Piedmont’s adoption of the Gold Shovel Standard, a non-profit organization that promotes safe digging practices using standardized performance metrics. Piedmont requires all its contractors to be Gold Shovel Certified and remain in good standing with the program.

“We’ve made it a simple choice for contractors who want to partner with Piedmont; we give preference to contractors who have adopted the Gold Shovel Standard and are committed to safe digging practices,” said Brian Weisker, senior vice president and chief operating officer for Piedmont Natural Gas. “The results so far have been phenomenal, and we are so proud to work with a group of contractors who have joined us in preventing unnecessary, potentially dangerous situations in our communities.”

“Underground natural gas lines are perfectly safe, and they operate best when left alone to do their jobs undisturbed,” Weisker continued. “The Gold Shovel Standard, combined with other damage prevention initiatives including advertising and social media, are making a real difference for Piedmont.”

Additionally, for the month of April 2021, Piedmont is testing geofencing – a technology that targets contractors by texting them an 811 safe digging reminder message as soon as they enter specific businesses that sell construction materials.

Piedmont reported 2,527 cuts to its underground natural gas lines in the Carolinas and Tennessee in 2019. In 2020, this number fell by 205 (about 8%) to 2,322 damages. In its most recent report, the Common Ground Alliance (CGA) said there were 532,000 damages to underground facilities nationwide in 2019, compared to 509,000 in 2018. The CGA is a national organization that unifies all 50 states in a shared effort to prevent damage to underground utilities.

For a video that shows how to use 811, click here. For additional information about 811, visit Call 811 Before You Dig or see our story on illumination: Call 811 before you start digging. To get in touch with the 811 center in your state, dial 811 or visit call811.com.

Piedmont Natural Gas

Piedmont Natural Gas, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, is an energy services company whose principal business is the distribution of natural gas to more than 1 million residential, commercial and industrial customers in North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. The company also supplies natural gas to power plants. Piedmont is routinely recognized by J.D. Power for excellent customer satisfaction and has been named by Cogent Reports as one of the most trusted utility brands in the U.S.

Media contact: Jennifer Sharpe
Phone: 877.348.3612
Email: jennifer.sharpe@duke-energy.com

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Duke Energy responds to North Carolina Utilities Commission’s decision on Duke Energy Carolinas’ 2019 rate request

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 23:16:00 GMT

Duke Energy worked with the NCUC, the North Carolina Public Staff, and other groups last spring to postpone the rate case proceedings due to the pandemic.

The full NCUC order can be found here.

Duke Energy statement

We are currently evaluating the North Carolina Utilities Commission’s order on Duke Energy Carolinas’ 2019 rate request and will determine the exact impacts on customer rates in the coming weeks, which will remain below the national average even after new rates go into effect. Our investments over the past several years have helped transition the state to cleaner energy sources, while keeping energy affordable and reliable for customers.

We are pleased with the NCUC’s approval of the settlement agreements reached with more than 10 diverse customer and environmental groups as a part of this transparent and thorough process. The result is a decision that balances the needs of customers and the company.

Highlights of the NCUC’s order include:

Approves settlement with the Attorney General, N.C. Public Staff and Sierra Club, reducing the amount of coal ash management costs recovered in customer rates and providing clarity on coal ash in North Carolina for the next decade.
Approves settlement with 10 diverse stakeholders for future grid improvements to strengthen the grid, improve reliability and enable more renewable energy. These costs will be evaluated in future rate requests. Also approves a Climate Risk & Resilience Working Group to assess impacts of climate change to distribution and transmission infrastructure.
Eliminates direct debit and credit card bill-paying fees for residential customers and adopts company’s proposal on broad stakeholder workshops to evaluate rate design and additional regulatory programs and protections for low-income customers, including a potential income-qualified energy efficiency pilot program.
Duke Energy shareholders will contribute $6 million over two years to the Helping Home Fund to provide energy- and cost-saving measures to North Carolina customers, and $5 million over two years to the Duke Energy Carolinas Share the Warmth program to provide billing assistance to low-income customers.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is transforming its customers’ experience, modernizing the energy grid, generating cleaner energy and expanding natural gas infrastructure to create a smarter energy future for the people and communities it serves. The Electric Utilities and Infrastructure unit’s regulated utilities serve 7.8 million retail electric customers in six states: North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. The Gas Utilities and Infrastructure unit distributes natural gas to 1.6 million customers in five states: North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. The Duke Energy Renewables unit operates wind and solar generation facilities across the U.S., as well as energy storage and microgrid projects.

Media contact: Meredith Archie
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy awards $375,000 in grants to South Carolina tutoring programs, education initiatives impacted by pandemic

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 14:35:00 GMT

Funding supports after-school and summer programs that mentor students while improving literacy skills.

Grants also address social justice, racial equity needs in K-12 education.

GREENVILLE, S.C. – Duke Energy announced today the recipients of $375,000 in grants through the Duke Energy Foundation to South Carolina organizations that will fund tutoring and reading programs in underserved and minority communities to combat learning gaps created by the pandemic.

The funds will also support environmental education programs for Title 1 schools and culturally relevant professional development, particularly as it pertains to racial equity in education.

The grants were awarded to 46 organizations across South Carolina.

“As the effects of the pandemic on our students and learning environments continue, after-school tutoring programs have become critical in addressing some of these learning gaps, and existing programs have been burdened to continue providing these valuable services,” said Mike Callahan, Duke Energy’s South Carolina president. “Both of my parents were public school teachers, so I’m personally proud that Duke Energy is continuing to support the education efforts of our teachers and students by supporting these critical organizations as they help curb learning gaps and other challenges presented by the pandemic.”

This summer, the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee will use grant funding to offer K-3 students the Raz-Plus Reading Program, a curriculum that seeks to improve vocabulary, language fluency and reading comprehension among participants.

“Boys & Girls Clubs remain committed to the social and emotional well-being of its members and aiding them on their academic journey,” said Neal L. Zimmerman, Jr., executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee. “This generous grant will help us continue our focus of improving members’ education this summer through the implementation of a proven reading curriculum taught by qualified instructors. This will help many members overcome the reading loss that has occurred during the pandemic.”

In addition to addressing the challenges presented by COVID-19, many of these grants help create or sustain programs that address the needs for social justice and racial equity in the K-12 education space.

One such program being offered by Public Education Partners aims to provide professional development to more than 800 teachers in the Greenville County School District around understanding cultural, race and ethnic differences among students and teaching methods to address these sensitivities with positive outcomes.

“Classrooms are among the first places that children learn how to be in community with each other and navigate differences,” said Catherine Schumacher, president and CEO of Public Education Partners. “Having empathetic teachers in the classroom who have taken the time to deepen their knowledge about racial equity will help vulnerable children. When we serve vulnerable children well, we serve all children better. We are grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for its investment in this work.”

Duke Energy

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information about the foundation and its Powerful Communities program can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

Duke Energy is transforming its customers’ experience, modernizing the energy grid, generating cleaner energy and expanding natural gas infrastructure to create a smarter energy future for the people and communities it serves. The Electric Utilities and Infrastructure unit’s regulated utilities serve 7.8 million retail electric customers in six states: North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. The Gas Utilities and Infrastructure unit distributes natural gas to 1.6 million customers in five states: North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. The Duke Energy Renewables unit operates wind and solar generation facilities across the U.S., as well as energy storage and microgrid projects.

Media contact: Ryan Mosier
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy announces key leadership appointments

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 12:27:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) today announced it is expanding the company’s senior management team and realigning roles and responsibilities to further accelerate its clean energy transition and best position the company to grow and serve its customers and communities.

The company also announced that Doug Esamann, executive vice president, energy solutions and president, Midwest/Florida regions and natural gas business, is retiring after a 42-year career at Duke Energy and its predecessor companies. Esamann’s retirement is effective Aug. 1, 2021.

“Doug is an extraordinary leader who embodies our values and purpose and played a critical role in shaping Duke Energy into the company it is today,” said Lynn Good, chair, president and CEO. “I’m extremely grateful for his many contributions. He will leave a powerful and lasting impact on our company, customers and the communities we serve.”

Throughout his career, Esamann has served in a number of roles, ranging from state president to head of corporate strategy to overseeing energy portfolio strategy and management. In his current role, Esamann was instrumental in creating the company’s clean energy strategy, expanding its renewables portfolio, cultivating new growth opportunities and delivering positive policy, regulatory and legislative outcomes that benefited customers in Florida and the Midwest.

New appointments and organizational changes

“The next decade will be defined by our ability to advance our clean energy vision, and we are fortunate to have a deep and talented pool of leaders who are ready to take on new responsibilities to deliver on this vision,” said Good. “With these appointments, we’re aligning our company to more effectively execute our clean energy strategy, collaborate with stakeholders, and deliver value to our customers and shareholders.”

The following changes are being made to the senior management committee:

Julie Janson, executive vice president and chief executive officer, Duke Energy Carolinas, will have responsibility for regulatory and legislative affairs and for the long-term strategic direction and growth, execution and overall financial performance of the company’s regulated utilities in the region, which will allow the company to deliver greater customer value.
Alex Glenn, senior vice president and chief executive officer, Duke Energy Florida and Midwest. Glenn will have responsibility for regulatory and legislative affairs and the overall financial performance of the company’s regulated utilities in Florida and the Midwest, as well as driving the strategic direction and execution in these states, all of which will deliver greater customer value.
Brian Savoy, executive vice president and chief strategy and commercial officer. Savoy will have responsibility for enterprise strategy as well as strategies to transform our generation and transmission assets. He will also have responsibility for commercial renewables, the natural gas business unit, business ventures and development, and relationship management and sales for large customer accounts.
Harry Sideris, executive vice president, customer experience, solutions, and services. In addition to focusing on customer delivery and enhancing the customer experience, he will be responsible for the development of mass-market products and services and the company’s electrification efforts, including continued development of long-term grid strategies and solutions.
Louis Renjel, senior vice president, external affairs and communications. Renjel will have responsibility for federal government affairs, strategic policy and sustainability, stakeholder strategy, the Duke Energy Foundation and corporate communications.
Melody Birmingham, senior vice president and chief administrative officer. Birmingham will have responsibility for the information technology, administrative services and supply chain organizations.
Ron Reising, senior vice president and chief human resources officer, is responsible for human resources policies, strategies and programs, as well as the delivery of business partner services.

Glenn, Renjel, Birmingham and Reising will now report to Good. Janson, Savoy, Sideris, Dhiaa Jamil, Kodwo Ghartey-Tagoe and Steve Young will continue to report to Good.

Other executive changes

Bill Currens, currently senior vice president financial planning & analysis, will become senior vice president, integrated planning, Carolinas.
Diane Denton, currently vice president state energy policy, will become vice president, integrated planning, Florida and Midwest.
Swati Daji, currently senior vice president, customer solutions and strategies, will become senior vice president, enterprise strategy and planning.
Regis Repko, currently senior vice president and chief regulated and renewable energy officer, will become senior vice president, generation and transmission market transformation.
Dwight Jacobs, currently senior vice president, chief accounting officer, tax and controller, will become senior vice president, supply chain and chief procurement officer.
Michael Luhrs, currently vice president, market solutions and innovation, will become vice president, integrated grid strategy.
Paul Draovitch, currently senior vice president, environmental health and safety, CCP and major projects, will become senior vice president and chief regulated and renewable energy officer.
Jessica Bednarcik, currently vice president, CCP operations, maintenance and governance, will become senior vice president, environmental health and safety, and CCP.
Lara Nichols, currently vice president nuclear and environmental health and safety support, will become vice president, state and federal regulatory legal support.
Michelle Spak, currently deputy general counsel, will become vice president nuclear and environmental health and safety support.
Cindy Lee, currently director, investor relations, will become vice president, chief accounting officer and controller.
Nick Giaimo, currently director, Carolinas utilities and CAO support, will become vice president financial planning & analysis.

The changes will be effective May 1, 2021, except for Dwight Jacobs and Cindy Lee, which will be effective May 16.

Duke Energy

Media contact: Neil Nissan
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy donates nearly $35,000 to community and environmental programs in Oklahoma

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 14:48:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy Foundation has awarded nearly $35,000 in grants through its Duke Energy Renewables fund to schools, community enrichment programs and wildlife rescue organizations in Kay County, Washington County and Payne County, Okla.

“These grants provide support to programs and organizations that are enhancing community resources, education and protecting local wildlife,” said Chris Fallon, president of Duke Energy Renewables. “We value our community partners knowing that our contributions are helping improve community resources and services for years to come.”

Duke Energy Renewables grants were awarded to:

City of Newkirk / Newkirk Youth Program – upgraded community athletic field; $2,860
Kildare Public Schools – upgraded student classroom with smart board technology; $3,149
Newkirk Public Schools – upgraded student classroom with smart board technology; $3,149
Marland’s Place: Foster Family Services / Ponca City – to support toy drive; $1,500
Nature’s Vein Wildlife Rescue – expansion of animal rescue enclosure; $10,000
Sutton Avian Research Center – community education and eagle wildlife reserve camera; $12,500
Newkirk FFA and 4-H Boosters program – resources for youth agricultural program; $1,000

“Duke Energy Renewables has been a great partner to the Newkirk community and the surrounding counties,” said Jason Shanks, Kay County commissioner. “On top of the economic development that their wind operations generate for the area, the individual contributions they have made to support our schools, little league, youth programs and community services have played an important part in improving our resources for our citizens.”

Kay County is home to Duke Energy Renewables’ Frontier and Frontier II Windpower projects, which total 550 MW of renewable energy.

Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information about the Foundation and its Powerful Communities program can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

Duke Energy Renewables

Media contact: Jennifer Garber
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy commits $300,000 to support internship programs for minority college students

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 19:03:00 GMT

Four organizations receive grants to fund internships.

Scholarships aim to create opportunities for careers in energy, government, law, politics.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Duke Energy Foundation today announced a three-year, $300,000 commitment to support internships for college students of color to jumpstart more career opportunities in energy, government, law and politics.

Duke Energy is providing funds to four organizations that will award the scholarships to qualified students: The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) Summer Internship Program, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) Congressional Internship Program, North Carolina Central University School of Law and the South Carolina Washington Semester Program. These organizations will choose students this spring to participate in virtual summer internship programs in 2021.

Duke Energy’s focus on building a diverse workforce mirrors the communities it serves. This is an intentional effort today and is a sustainable part of our culture for the next generation workforce.

“We all have a role and responsibility to participate in advancing justice and equity. That requires a further commitment to help address the systemic issues our communities face,” said Katherine Neebe, Duke Energy’s vice president, national engagement & strategy, chief sustainability officer and president, Duke Energy Foundation. “We are excited to help support promising young professionals, many who are from the communities we serve, as they learn and grow from their experiences in energy and environmental policy.”

Congressional Black Caucus Foundation

More than 40 years ago, the CBCF initiated its internship program to address the underrepresentation of African Americans in professional staff positions on Capitol Hill. The selected interns gain firsthand leadership experience by working with and learning from members of Congress and other executives in Washington, D.C.

“CBCF is proud to partner with Duke Energy to provide deserving students an opportunity to work on Capitol Hill, directly with members of the Congressional Black Caucus,” said CBCF President and CEO Tonya Veasey. “Students will participate in our summer Congressional Internship Program where they will engage in professional development trainings and be exposed to the process of national policymaking.”

Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute

The CHCI Congressional Internship Program provides college students with a paid placement in a congressional office, supplemented with focused leadership training one day a week. Promising Latino undergraduates from across the country are selected for this extraordinary leadership training program.

We appreciate Duke Energy’s support for our mission to advance the next generation of Latino leaders,” said Marco A. Davis, CHCI president and CEO. “We are inspired by the students who participate in our Congressional Internship Program. This transformational experience helps our participants continue to evolve as leaders and further contribute to creating positive change in their communities.”

North Carolina Central University (NCCU) School of Law

Each summer, law students from NCCU School of Law participate in the school’s public interest internship program. Law students seek out internship opportunities that align with their interest and are supported financially by the program.

"We are thankful to Duke Energy for its newest grant to North Carolina Central University that expands our long-standing partnership to include our School of Law,” said Johnson O. Akinleye, Ph.D., chancellor of North Carolina Central University. “The funding will provide internship opportunities that will introduce our future attorneys to new career opportunities in areas including energy, government and public policy."

South Carolina Washington Semester Program

The South Carolina Washington Semester Program selects students from South Carolina’s colleges and universities to intern mostly in congressional offices during the fall and spring semesters.

“This partnership will enrich the educational experience for students and allows us to intentionally attract, prepare and secure a full-time internship in our nation’s capital for students of color,” said Julie Hutt, director of internship programs and academic advisor, South Carolina Washington Semester Program. “Our recruiting efforts will focus on students from historically Black colleges and universities in the state of South Carolina. Each cohort participating in the program should reflect and support the diverse world around us.”

Duke Energy Foundation

Media contact: Phil Sgro
800.559.3853
Twitter: @DE_PhilSgro

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Duke Energy announces final payments to Contingent Value Obligation holders

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 14:18:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A subsidiary of Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), Progress Energy, today announced it will direct the trustee for its Contingent Value Obligations to pay holders of outstanding Contingent Value Obligations (CVO) approximately $1.03 per CVO. The upcoming payments account for all funds previously deposited with the trustee and no future payments will be made related to the CVOs.

The CVOs were issued as a result of the Progress Energy and Florida Progress Corporation share exchange on Nov. 30, 2000. One CVO was issued for every Florida Progress Corporation share owned at the time.

The one-time final payment will be made by the trustee to the paying agent, American Stock Transfer (AST), on April 19, 2021 for the pro rata benefit of holders of record as of March 29, 2021. AST will send payments directly to the CVO holders.

Duke Energy will report to the Internal Revenue Service that approximately 70.04% of each payment, or approximately $0.7004 per CVO, constitutes interest income to CVO holders. Given this, the company encourages CVO holders to consult a financial or tax advisor about tax consequences for his or her unique situation.

For more information on the CVOs, visit the quarterly report filed on the Form 8-K dated March 24, 2021, which the company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission today. If investors have questions, they can contact American Stock Transfer (AST) at 877.711.4092.

Duke Energy

Cautionary language concerning forward-looking statements

This document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by terms and phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will," "potential," "forecast," "target," "outlook," "guidance," and similar expressions. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. These risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Duke Energy’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than Duke Energy has described. Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Media contact: Catherine Butler
800.559.3853

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Duke Energy Foundation gives $100,000 to new 'Story of Florida Water' exhibit at Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 19:12:00 GMT

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The Florida Museum of Natural History looks to the past, present and future as it tells “The Story of Florida Water.”

Visitors will soon be able to experience a simulated glass-bottom boat ride, a “Water Lab” (artist’s rendering above) and more as part of the new exhibition.

The new project will reimagine the museum’s historic “Northwest Florida: Waterways & Wildlife” area, and will be free to all visitors. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2022.

“As the state natural history museum, we believe we must inspire and empower our visitors to become informed stewards of Florida’s critical water resources,” said Darcie MacMahon, Florida Museum director of exhibits and public programs. “We are confident the exhibit will promote awareness, create appreciation and inspire action.”

State-of-the-art immersive components will explore Florida’s significant water resources, examine the critical role that water plays in the state’s developing history, and offer ways for the museum’s more than 200,000 annual visitors to make a difference.

A field cabin replica, complete with simulated weather patterns outside its LED screen ‘windows,’ will welcome visitors into a hammock forest and limestone cave.

These iconic elements of the “Northwest Florida” exhibit will live on and be incorporated into “The Story of Florida Water” with new refurbishments and technology.

Another engaging plan for the exhibit is a glass-bottom boat experience that will simulate what it’s like to ride down some of Florida’s beloved waterways while educating visitors on healthy and at-risk springs.

A “Recharge Lounge” and “Water Lab” will welcome guests to take part in unique educational experiences like an interactive exploration of Florida’s aquifer and learn news of current research with multimedia displays, interpretive graphics and museum specimens.

The Duke Energy Foundation is continuing its support of the Florida Museum’s exhibits through a grant that supports environmental education.

In honor of World Water Day, Duke Energy representatives today presented a donation of $100,000 to the museum for the project.

“Duke Energy is proud to support the Florida Museum of Natural History and its future ‘Water Lab’ as part of the new ‘Story of Florida Water’ exhibit,” said Melissa Seixas, president of Duke Energy Florida. “Water is essential to the life and economy of Florida. And at Duke Energy, we continuously look for sustainable ways to more effectively use this important natural resource that makes Florida a special place to live and work.”

Further funding is being provided by gifts from corporations, family foundations and museum supporters.

To increase community involvement as part of the exhibit’s development, the Florida Museum conducted a visitor survey, the results of which will inform the design process moving forward.

“‘The Story of Florida Water’ exhibit will raise awareness about Florida’s most important resource and inspire behaviors that will preserve this asset for future generations,” said Julie Waters, Florida Museum exhibit coordinator.

To donate to this exciting new endeavor, visit: www.uff.ufl.edu/giving-opportunities/024027-florida-water-exhibit.

Florida Museum of Natural History

The Florida Museum of Natural History has been inspiring people to value and protect the biological richness and cultural heritage of our diverse world for more than a century. Located on the University of Florida campus, the Florida Museum is home to more than 40 million specimens and artifacts, one of the nation’s largest natural history collections. For more information, visit www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu or follow us on social media, @FloridaMuseum.

Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information about the foundation and its Powerful Communities program can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos, videos and other materials. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Media contacts:

Duke Energy
Allison Barker
Media line: 800.559.3853
Email: allison.barker@duke-energy.com
Twitter: @DE_AllisonB

Florida Museum of Natural History
Kaitlin Gardiner
Phone: 352.273.2028
Email: kgardiner@floridamuseum.ufl.edu

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New electrical lineworker program and training ground now open at Florida's St. Petersburg College

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 15:29:00 GMT

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – St. Petersburg College (SPC) has opened a new Power Florida Training Center at the college’s Allstate Center location.

In collaboration with Duke Energy and PowerTown Line Construction, the center will serve as the home of SPC’s new electrical lineworker program.

“SPC is committed to partnering with businesses to streamline access for our students to gain valuable skills and meet local workforce demands,” SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams said. “Thank you Duke Energy and PowerTown Line Construction for your generosity and support of student success. Also, thank you to all of the other members of the SPC Lineworker Consortium for your industry expertise which was invaluable in making our Power Florida Training Center a reality.”

In an effort to find local and diverse talent, Duke Energy donated $100,000 to develop the training facility, hire an instructor and purchase classroom equipment. The program also was funded by the Florida Department of Education’s Rapid Credentialing Grant, which came out of the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

“Duke Energy Florida is proud to collaborate with St. Petersburg College on its new electrical lineworker program. It strengthens the diverse workforce pipeline needed to provide reliable power and provides our neighbors good paying jobs to support the vitality of our communities,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “This curriculum ensures graduates will be ready to work with the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful.”

As a member of the SPC Lineworker Consortium, PowerTown offered industry insight on the project and oversaw construction of the training yard. Steve Magenheimer, PowerTown Line Construction Training Director, will teach the program’s first training cohort next month.

“PowerTown is excited to collaborate with St. Petersburg College to bring more than 30 years of experience to the classroom,” Magenheimer said. “Not only will students be prepared for various roles, the training program will also instill the principles of diversity, safe work practices, proper work methods and team building.”

Students can complete the electrical lineworker program in as little as 14 weeks. They will gain hands-on, essential lineworker skills and receive additional CPR/First Aid, commercial driver, and OSHA 10 training.

In Florida, where tropical weather can regularly interrupt the power supply, electrical line installers and repairers are in demand. The state boasts the fourth highest employment level for this occupation in the nation, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Electrical power line installers and repairers earn a median annual salary of $52,770 in the Tampa Bay area.

For more information and to register, contact Dan Fumano at Fumano.Dan@spcollege.edu.

St. Petersburg College

St. Petersburg College alumni rank 1st in the state of Florida for possessing the most valuable job skills among two-year colleges. Founded in 1927, SPC is Florida's first two-year college and the first to offer bachelor’s degrees. We offer more than 110 degree and certificate programs, including many high-demand, high-skill industry-recognized workforce certifications. Our career-focused curriculum is created with input from industry experts to give students the skills they need to meet the needs of today’s employers. Our new Pathways Program gives students a clear roadmap to success to ensure they are taking the right courses - in the right sequence - to meet their goals.

Duke Energy Florida

Media contacts:

Duke Energy

Ana Gibbs
Cell: 813.928.7263
Media line: 800.559.3853

St. Petersburg College

Rita Farlow
Phone: 727-302-6526
Email: Farlow.Rita@spcollege.edu

Marilyn Shaw
Phone: 727-341-4712
Email: shaw.marilyn@spcollege.edu

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Duke Energy Foundation awards more than $311,000 in grants to support K-12 education initiatives in 15 Indiana counties

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 18:40:00 GMT

Counties include: Boone, Crawford, Daviess, Decatur, Hamilton, Hendricks, Howard, Knox, Lawrence, Monroe, Ripley, Tippecanoe, Vermillion, Vigo and Wabash.

Many of the initiatives address student learning gaps caused by pandemic.

PLAINFIELD, Ind. – The Duke Energy Foundation has awarded $311,246 in grants to 22 different K-12 education programs in 15 Indiana counties for 2021.

The grants support summer reading programs; energy, engineering and environmental education programs; and programs that support under-represented, low-income or diverse audiences.

“We all know many students missed out on several learning opportunities last year,” said Stan Pinegar, Duke Energy state president for Indiana. “I am proud that we are able to offer these grants to students in communities throughout our service territory with the hope of helping those students catch up, restore their passion for learning and encourage them to meet and exceed their educational goals.”

“Duke Energy Foundation funding is critical to supporting literacy development during the summer for our primary students,” said Amy Etienne, principal at South Crawford Elementary school in Crawford County. “This funding from the Foundation will support our summer reading program and provide valuable time for our students to learn.”

The Foundation makes these grants available through the company’s “Powerful Communities” program, which helps power the lives of customers and the vitality of communities through charitable giving.

The complete grant recipient list includes:

COUNTY	ORGANIZATION	FOCUS	GRANT
Boone	Zionsville Education Foundation	Help teachers with resources they need to address education challenges during the pandemic	$10,000
Crawford	Crawford Co. Community School Corp.	Summer school for selected students to improve basic literacy skills	$25,000
Daviess	Vincennes Community School Corp. / Washington Learning Academy	Improve WLA learning environment through purchase of Student Emotional Learning curriculum	$10,000
Decatur	Decatur Co. Community Schools	Literacy camp to help young readers with 1-on-1 instruction	$10,000
Hamilton	Carmel Education Foundation	Summer school program for rising second-grade students to improve reading skills	$20,000
Knox	North Knox Primary School	Summer school program to help first and-second-grade students to improve reading skills	$10,000
Hendricks	Danville Community School Corp.	“Warrior Whiz” summer education remediation program	$11,506
Hendricks	Plainfield Community Schools	Summer reading camp to improve reading and math skills	$10,000
Hendricks	The Imagination Lab	One-day intensive summer Odyssey for Plainfield elementary students	$10,000
Howard	Kokomo School Corp.	Summer Discovery Program for early elementary students	$20,000
Howard	Northwestern School Corp.	Reading remediation for students in grades 1-4	$9,240
Howard	United Way of Howard Co.	Program to improve literacy skills for students	$15,000
Lawrence	United Way of Lawrence Co.	Conduct STEM-related courses for grades K-6	$10,000
Monroe	Foundation for Monroe Co. Community Schools	Provide professional development for up to 150 teachers to build equity-centered education skills	$10,000
Ripley	Kids Discovery Factory	Renovate and expand donated building to permanently house Kids Discovery Factory	$10,000
Ripley	Milan Community Schools	Three-week summer remedial reading program for selected students in grades 1-3	$10,000
Tippecanoe	Purdue University	Projects include a summer camp devoted to empowering women in business, and PROJECT TEACH, which helps high school students explore careers in teaching	$50,000
Vermillion	South Vermillion Community Schools	Summer reading program to support early literacy	$15,000
Vigo	Chances and Services for Youth and Camp Rave / Terre Haute Children’s Museum	CASY and museum combine to offer science and literary curriculum for K-5 students to address summer “brain drain”	$11,000
Vigo	Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology	Professional development for STEM teachers who teach in grades 6-12	$10,000
Vigo	Vigo County School Corporation	Team Vigo Summer Edition	$15,000
Wabash	Wabash County YMCA	SPARK – Summer Program of Awesome Reading for Kids	$10,000

Duke Energy Indiana and Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. In Indiana, the foundation contributes more than $2 million annually in charitable gifts, and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information about the foundation and its Powerful Communities program can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

Media contact: Lew Middleton
Cell: 317.474.7448
Office: 317.838.1505
Media line: 800.559.3853

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Seminole State College of Florida partners with Duke Energy for new campus solar array

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 17:34:00 GMT

Project provides energy, learning opportunities for college and students

SANFORD, Fla. – Seminole State College of Florida is getting a power boost and installing a new solar array on its Robert & Jane Lee Campus in Oviedo, Fla.

The new solar array was made possible through a $94,000 grant from Duke Energy.

“This facility will provide Seminole State College of Florida firsthand experience in solar systems,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “It’s an opportunity to provide faculty and students a real-world learning environment, while we develop alternative energy solutions for Duke Energy Florida customers.”

The system is being constructed by Ocala-based company Solar Trek and is a combination of roof and ground mounted panels that measures approximately 2,075 square feet, including 96 individual panels.

Construction has begun and is expected to be completed in March.

“A solar array of this size can produce enough energy each year to power an electric car for 190,000 miles. That is more than seven and a half times around the Earth!” said Seminole State Facilities Energy and Sustainability Manager James Miller. “This system is projected to save the College more than $125,000 in energy bills over the next 20 years and to avoid roughly 16 million tons of CO₂ emissions over its lifetime.”

The benefit goes beyond just the financial however, as the solar array will act as a learning tool for Seminole State faculty and students. As part of this project’s educational value, the College plans to include an online, publicly accessible dashboard with live data about the array’s electrical production.

“This is more than just a cost-saving measure, it is also an opportunity to promote sustainability on campus. We are pleased to provide faculty and students the chance to be a part of this long-lasting renewable project, said Dr. John Gyllin, Seminole State’s vice president of resource and economic development and executive director of the Foundation for Seminole State College. “We are also proud to have been awarded this grant through our strong partnership with Duke Energy and look forward to future collaborations.”

Seminole State College strives to create an institutional culture of sustainability and a community of practice dedicated to the long-term social, economic and environmental wellness of our college and community.

Seminole State College of Florida

Seminole State College of Florida, established in 1965, serves nearly 30,000 students across six sites in Central Florida. A comprehensive college, Seminole State has awarded more than 100,000 credentials, from bachelor's degrees to high school diplomas, and offers more than 200 degrees, certificates and programs designed for success. For more about the College, visit seminolestate.edu, like us on Facebook at facebook.com/seminolestate and follow us on Twitter: @seminolestate.

Duke Energy Florida

Media contacts:

Duke Energy

Ana Gibbs
Media line: 800.559.3853
Cell: 813.928.7263

Seminole State College

Emily Hollingshead
Email: hollingsheade@seminolestate.edu

Kimberly Allen
Email: allenk@seminolestate.edu

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Duke Energy Renewables announces commercial operation of its largest windpower project – 350-MW Frontier II in Oklahoma

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 14:07:00 GMT

AT&T and Ball Corporation invest in wind energy produced by project.

New project is expansion of 200-MW Frontier Windpower project, operational since 2016.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy Renewables, a commercial business unit of Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), today announced the commercial operation of the largest windpower project in its fleet – the 350-megawatt (MW) Frontier Windpower II project in Kay County, Okla.

The project is an expansion of the 200-MW Frontier Windpower project, operational since 2016. Together, Frontier I and II are generating a total of 550 MW of wind energy – enough to power about 193,000 average-size homes.

AT&T and Ball Corporation have signed 15-year virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) for 160 MW and 161 MW, respectively. These VPPAs will settle on an as-generated basis tied to Frontier II’s real-time energy output.

“We’re pleased to be working with AT&T and Ball Corporation on the Frontier II project, which is located in an area that has some of the best wind resources in the country,” said Chris Fallon, president of Duke Energy Renewables. “This project further demonstrates how we can address the community’s need for clean energy resources, while providing unique sustainability solutions for our customers.”

"At AT&T, we believe renewable energy is good for the planet, for our business, and for the communities we serve," said Scott Mair, president of AT&T Network Engineering & Operations. "With more than 1.5 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity, our portfolio delivers clean electricity to the grid, helps to create jobs and community benefits, and supports the transition to a low-carbon economy. This is an important piece of our journey to reach carbon neutrality across our global operations by 2035."

“In 2019 Ball Corporation released new climate goals approved by the Science Based Target Initiative, including a 55% absolute reduction in our Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 with a significant portion of that reduction coming from our global transition to renewable energy, ” said Kathleen Pitre, chief commercial officer and chief sustainability officer of Ball Corporation. “Partnering with Duke Energy on the Frontier II project is a momentous step in helping Ball achieve our Science Based Targets, reduce the carbon footprint of our beverage cans and support our customers’ sustainability goals. As the largest aluminum beverage packaging manufacturer in the world and a leading corporate buyer of renewable energy in our industry, the Frontier II project will contribute to Ball meeting our target to address 100% of our North American electricity load with renewable energy.”

During peak construction, the wind project created approximately 250 jobs. Along with indirect economic benefits that accompany wind project development, such as increased local spending in the service and construction industries, Frontier II will also have a positive economic impact on the local community by providing significant local tax revenues during assessment years of commercial operation to the county and local school districts, as well as meaningful payments to participating landowners.

Nordex Group supplied 74 4.8-MW wind turbines for the site. Amshore Renewable Energy provided development support for the project, and Wanzek Construction was the contractor.

The 350-MW Frontier Windpower II project will produce enough energy to power about 123,000 average homes.

Duke Energy is one of the nation’s top renewable energy providers, and this project supports Duke Energy’s plans to double its enterprise renewable portfolio from 8 GW to 16 GW by the end of 2025.

About Duke Energy Renewables

About AT&T Communications

We help family, friends and neighbors connect in meaningful ways every day. From the first phone call 140+ years ago to mobile video streaming, we @ATT innovate to improve lives. AT&T Communications is part of AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T). For more information, please visit us at att.com.

About Ball Corporation

Ball Corporation supplies innovative, sustainable aluminum packaging solutions for beverage, personal care and household products customers, as well as aerospace and other technologies and services primarily for the U.S. government. Ball Corporation and its subsidiaries employ 21,500 people worldwide and reported 2020 net sales of $11.8 billion. For more information, visit www.ball.com, or connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by terms and phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will," "potential," "forecast," "target," "outlook," "guidance," and similar expressions. Various factors may cause actual results to be materially different than the suggested outcomes within forward-looking statements; accordingly, there is no assurance that such results will be realized. These risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Duke Energy’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements might not occur or might occur to a different extent or at a different time than Duke Energy has described. Duke Energy expressly disclaims an obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Media contact: Jennifer Garber
Media line: 800.559.3853
Email: jennifer.garber@Duke-Energy.com

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Piedmont Natural Gas seeks to help North Carolina customers offset their carbon footprint through new green energy program

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 16:05:00 GMT

Program would allow customers to purchase blocks comprised of both the favorable environmental qualities of renewable natural gas and carbon offsets.

Customers can participate in the program beginning at $3 per month.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – North Carolina residential and small business customers of Piedmont Natural Gas may soon have the opportunity to participate in a new carbon footprint-reducing, green energy program to offset their personal natural gas usage. Piedmont announced today it has filed with the North Carolina Utilities Commission a request to implement this green program.

Under the program, Piedmont customers will have the option to purchase “green” blocks for just $3 each per month, which will be added to their monthly bill. These blocks are comprised of the favorable environmental qualities of renewable natural gas (RNG) and carbon offsets. There will be no limit to the number of blocks that can be purchased, although four blocks, for a total of $12, should offset the average household’s carbon footprint.

RNG is methane that has been captured from the breakdown of organic waste and processed to remove contaminants and meet natural gas pipeline quality standards. Carbon offsets include forestry, land conservation or other nature-based offsets that are beneficial to the environment.

“Our residential customers have voiced an interest in ways to manage their carbon footprint,” said Sasha Weintraub, senior vice president, natural gas business, at Piedmont Natural Gas. “Our larger customers have more tools to meet many of their sustainability goals, and we would like to offer our residential and small business customers the same opportunity.”

The green program was designed from specific customer feedback to provide that choice.

Weintraub added, “This flexible, affordable option puts our customers in control of reducing their personal natural gas footprint. It also allows them to participate in our own carbon-reduction commitment as our business moves toward net-zero methane emissions from our natural gas delivery system by 2030.”

In addition to its 2030 net-zero methane reduction target, the company has invested in SustainRNG, a developer of renewable natural gas projects in the agriculture sector. Piedmont is sourcing renewable natural gas for its compressed natural gas stations, with a pilot

project already underway in Tennessee. The company also joined ONE Future, a nationwide coalition of natural gas companies working to voluntarily reduce methane emissions in the entire natural gas supply chain.

“Offering customers the ability to participate in the green program enables them to partner with us in moving toward an even cleaner energy future,” Weintraub said.

If approved by the NCUC, blocks would be available for customers to purchase through the green program no later than the first quarter of 2022.

Piedmont Natural Gas

Media contact: Jason Wheatley

Phone: 877.348.3612

Email: jason.wheatley@duke-energy.com

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Duke Energy Florida announces 2 additional solar sites

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 15:24:00 GMT

Sites will help complete three-millionth solar panel installation.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Duke Energy Florida (DEF) today announced the locations of its two newest solar power plants, which continue the expansion of its renewable generation portfolio.

The solar plants are the latest milestones in the company’s strategy to deliver clean energy to customers. DEF currently has more than 900 MW of solar generation under construction or in operation, and will more than quadruple the amount of in-service solar on its system over the next four years.

The Fort Green Power Plant will be built on approximately 500 acres in Hardee County, Fla. The 74.9-megawatt (MW) plant will consist of approximately 265,000 solar panels, utilizing a fixed-tilt racking system that will produce enough carbon-free energy to effectively power more than 20,000 average-sized homes at peak production.
The Bay Trail Solar Power Plant will be built on 500 acres in Citrus County, Fla. Once operational, the 74.9-MW facility will consist of approximately 197,000 tracking bifacial solar panels. Its innovative double-sided panel design is highly efficient and tracks the movement of the sun. The plant will be capable of effectively producing enough electricity to power approximately 23,000 average-sized homes at peak production.

“Citrus County welcomes the Duke Energy Bay Trail Solar Power Plant into our community,” said Citrus County Commission Chair Scott E. Carnahan. ”This investment promotes clean energy, brings jobs to our area and capital investment into our community. We believe this project will bring many benefits to our residents.”

The Bay Trail facility is the site of a future mining location and the Fort Green site is a former phosphate mine.

“These solar power plants are examples of how mining sites can be developed for renewable energy and benefit our communities and the environment,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “Duke Energy Florida is delivering on what our customers want – access to clean energy at a competitive price. We are providing environmentally friendly, cost-effective and innovative solar that benefits all of our Florida customers.”

Building A Smarter Energy Future^®

Duke Energy Florida remains a leader in advancing clean energy in the state.

The company has now installed more than 1.9 million solar panels in Florida to date.

Once both sites are finished, the Bay Trail and Fort Green solar power plants will help Duke Energy Florida complete the installation of its three-millionth solar panel in the state.

In February 2020, Duke Energy Florida announced the installation of its one-millionth solar panel in Florida at the company’s Columbia Solar Power Plant in Fort White, Fla.

Video of installation of one-millionth solar panel at Columbia Solar Power Plant

Video of Columbia plant, from drone

More information about the installation

Duke Energy Florida

Media contact: Ana Gibbs
Media line: 800.559.3853
Cell: 813.928.7263

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Finding best fit for Carolinas

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 17:00:00 GMT

By Mark Oliver
Vice president of integrated system planning
Duke Energy

Duke Energy serves more than 4 million electric customers in the Carolinas, and we consistently hear they share our vision for a cleaner energy future. We’ve already made incredible progress, retiring two-thirds of the coal plants in the Carolinas, and reducing emissions by more than 40% since 2005. Our goal is to continue this progress while keeping energy affordable and reliable.

In 2020, we took another significant step on this path by proactively engaging stakeholders on the development of our 15-year plan – also known as the Integrated Resource Plans (IRPs) – that lays out how to meet customers’ energy demands. Based on feedback from more than 200 diverse stakeholder groups, for the first time, these plans include a broad range of generation portfolio options to achieve varying levels of carbon reduction, including pathways to achieve up to 70% reduction of carbon emissions by 2030.

The plans present six possible generation pathways to provide regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders a broader view of carbon reduction pathways over the next 15 years, while seeking to balance the needs of customers and the current realities of our system and available technology.

Importantly, each portfolio keeps us on a trajectory to meet our near-term carbon reduction goal of at least 50% by 2030 and long-term goal of net-zero carbon output by 2050 in the Carolinas, while exploring faster coal retirement and the addition of more solar and storage.

Recently, anti-natural gas and anti-nuclear groups have criticized our energy plans and misrepresented the information that they contain. While we welcome and respect all opinions and perspectives, none of these parties carries the same responsibility we do to provide energy that’s reliable, affordable and available at all hours and in all seasons, while transitioning to a cleaner generation mix.

We want to be clear about our goals.

We share many of the same objectives, such as retiring our remaining coal plants early and bringing on more clean energy to replace coal.

Our energy transition must be equitable for all our customers, from residential customers struggling during the pandemic to manufacturers who need to stay competitive to customers wanting more clean energy. It’s important to recognize that both state lawmakers and utility regulators in the Carolinas require us to plan and operate a power system that provides electricity to our customers at the least possible cost, with due consideration of reliability and rate stability over a range of possible futures.

In the absence of a new federal carbon policy, we have been working within the current regulatory system to reduce carbon emissions by replacing older, less efficient coal units with cleaner burning, more flexible natural gas units for over two decades. These efforts have made us a national leader in carbon reduction and account for over 70% of our carbon reduction since 2005 in the Carolinas. And this improved system flexibility has enabled us to add solar at a much faster pace than most parts of the country.

Our plans include aggressively pursuing additional solar in the Carolinas and plan up to four times the current solar capacity over the next 15 years. And, for the first time, our plans include both onshore and offshore wind in the Carolinas as a viable power generation resource.

But in order to meet these goals, we must all acknowledge the unique system characteristics in the Carolinas that require some type of reliable dispatchable energy source to fill the gap when solar and storage can’t keep up with customer demand, like during a long stretch of cold winter days as recently experienced in Texas. Natural gas and nuclear power are cleaner energy generation sources that will provide a critical bridge between coal and our plan for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

We believe there’s a way to add some new natural gas plants to meet the near-term energy needs of our growing customer base, while executing on our long-term affordability and carbon goals – recognizing that the role of these resources will change significantly over time, ultimately serving as a backup to weather-dependent renewable generation. Installing plants that are hydrogen-compatible is one way to achieve that kind of versatility. And, as the costs of renewables are projected to continue to fall, thoughtfully pacing this transition will be key so our customers can benefit from these savings in future years.

We included a “no new gas” option in our plans to provide stakeholders a better understanding of what that would entail. The idea sounds simple, but there are several challenges:

It is the most expensive option for our residential, commercial and industrial customers.
It delays the retirement of coal units that emit the most carbon.
It threatens the reliability and affordability of our power supply by relying more heavily on the development of new energy storage technology.

While it is an option the Carolinas may choose to pursue, customers, regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders need to understand fully the cost, environmental and reliability challenges and trade-offs the “no new gas” option presents.

We are proud the Carolinas are national leaders for carbon emissions reduction in the electric sector – while maintaining some of the lowest energy prices in the country – and we’re eager to build on and accelerate that success. We conducted this extensive analysis to provide a comprehensive, transparent view of the costs and benefits associated with options for further carbon reductions. We intended for our plans to provide more detail than ever before to help inform customers, regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders about those very important energy policy conversations.

We will continue to work and collaborate to find the best fit for the Carolinas and the citizens and businesses we serve.

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Leading on Climate and Transparency

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 15:08:00 GMT

By Katherine Neebe
Vice President of National Engagement & Strategy
Chief Sustainability Officer

Today, Duke Energy is taking an important step in our efforts to provide insight into our political advocacy on climate change by releasing a report on the major trade associations with which we participate and how their views on climate align with ours.

The company has made great strides in our efforts to deliver a clean, reliable and affordable energy future for all customers. We've achieved deep cuts in our own emissions, set even higher aspirations, leveraged our resources and voice to help other sectors transform, and provided additional transparency into the company's climate views and strategy. Yet, we recognize that there is much work left to do – as a company, as an industry, across all sectors of the economy and around the world. After all, climate change is a global issue that requires purposeful and unifying leadership if we are to be successful in delivering the needed solutions.

Our climate strategy to achieve net-zero emissions is our business strategy. And vice versa. This strategy is a commitment that we have made to our customers, shareholders, communities and other key stakeholders, and they are now expecting us to deliver. Our public policy advocacy directly reflects that strategy and commitment.

Key catalysts of the clean energy transition will be durable public policies. They'll likely focus on a few key areas for our industry – transitioning electric generating fleets, expanding and improving the electric grid, and adopting new low-carbon and carbon-free technologies that will reduce emissions. We need to accomplish all these while keeping energy affordable and reliable for customers.

On the policy front, complex issues like climate change benefit from engagement, collaboration and partnership. The Duke Energy Trade Associations Climate Review report provides the reader with clear insight into:

Duke Energy's approach to governance and transparency
Duke Energy's view on effective climate policy
Engagement with each organization reviewed
Alignment with each organization reviewed

Carefully examining the associations we participate in is not a new practice for our company. Over the years, we have critically evaluated our memberships and engaged in national organizations that effectively represent our views as well as other key voices on climate policy. We have also advocated within those organizations for climate policies and activities to be in harmony with our climate objectives. While we may not always support each individual initiative of every organization we participate in, the current climate positions of the major trade associations reviewed in this new report are consistent with those of Duke Energy. We'll continue to evaluate and evolve our memberships as needed.

Duke Energy has transformed to meet the needs of our stakeholders for more than a century. We have adapted our business strategy to respond to the risks of climate change while upholding our obligation to provide reliable and affordable energy for our customers. We are committed to working tirelessly every day to advance these objectives as we execute our plans to deliver a clean energy future for millions of Americans.

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