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On October 14, 2025, the North Carolina Public Utility Commission voted to approve a rate increase for Duke Energy, the state's largest electric utility company. The decision comes after months of deliberation and public hearings regarding Duke Energy's request for a rate hike to help cover the costs of upgrading their grid infrastructure and transitioning to cleaner energy sources.The rate increase, which was approved by a 3-2 vote, will result in an average monthly bill increase of $15 for residential customers. Duke Energy argued that the rate hike was necessary to fund important investments in their electric grid, including modernizing outdated infrastructure and expanding their renewable energy portfolio.Critics of the rate increase, including consumer advocacy groups and environmental organizations, voiced concerns about the affordability of electricity for low-income households and the lack of guarantees that Duke Energy would prioritize investments in renewable energy over fossil fuels. Despite these concerns, the majority of the Public Utility Commission ultimately decided that the rate increase was justified to ensure the reliability and sustainability of Duke Energy's electric service.In response to the approval of the rate increase, Duke Energy released a statement expressing their gratitude for the Commission's decision. They emphasized their commitment to a cleaner energy future for North Carolina and highlighted their plans to invest in renewable energy projects and energy efficiency programs.The rate increase will go into effect starting in January 2026, giving customers a few months to adjust to the higher monthly bills. The Public Utility Commission has also mandated that Duke Energy provide regular updates on their progress in meeting their renewable energy goals and ensure transparency in their rate-setting process.Overall, the approval of the rate increase for Duke Energy represents a significant development in North Carolina's energy landscape, as the state continues to navigate the challenges of transitioning to a more sustainable and affordable electric grid.