Energy costs are on the rise for Duke Energy Carolinas customers in South Carolina. The Public Service Commission of South Carolina (PSCSC) has approved new rate hikes that will impact nearly 660,000 customers across the state, as reported by QC News. The approval came this Yesterday, concluding a public and procedural progression.
Beginning on this coming August, South Carolinians using 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity can expect their bills to go up by about 8.7%, an increase by approximately $12.06 per month. By August of 2026, rates will climb yet another 4.3%, adding a further $6.42 to monthly expenses for a typical residential customer. Duke Energy claims these rates are still below the national average,, despite the upcoming changes.
Commercial and industrial customers aren't exempt from the hike. As of August 1, they will see an average increase of around 4.6% and 4.4% respectively, but actual rates vary by customer class and size, as detailed by WYFF 4. The specifics of these changes were made public during a series of hearings earlier in April, captured in a video published on the news outlet's website.Duke Energy, a major figure in the American energy landscape, is concurrently investing in cleaner energy and grid upgrades. According to the company's news release, "Duke Energy is executing an ambitious clean energy transition, keeping reliability, affordability and accessibility at the forefront." They have set a target of net-zero methane emissions from its natural gas business by 2030, and aim for net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050, a commitment featured on their Duke Energy website. This includes plans for expanded energy storage, renewables, and advanced nuclear options among others.
