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Duke Energy's Comprehensive Solutions to Help Manage Rising Energy Bills During Cold Streaks

With a prolonged period of below-normal temperatures gripping the Carolinas, energy usage is on the rise, leading to higher utility bills for many households. Duke Energy recognizes the challenges faced by its customers during this intense cold spell and is proactively providing a range of support and solutions. With guidance on energy conservation and innovative billing options, customers can take control of their energy expenses.

Understanding the Current Weather Impact

The Carolinas are currently experiencing a significant cold front, with temperatures dipping 10 to 20 degrees below the seasonal average. This unusual and extended cold snap could be among the longest since January 2018, putting additional strain on heating systems and consequently increasing energy consumption.

Reasons Behind Increased Energy Use

As temperatures remain low, heating systems must work harder to maintain comfortable indoor environments. This increase in demand leads to greater energy consumption, resulting in a noticeable impact on monthly bills. Duke Energy has identified this scenario and aims to assist customers in managing their energy use through practical measures.

Energy-Saving Tips from Duke Energy

Duke Energy provides numerous tips designed to help customers reduce their energy consumption during these colder months:

1. Thermostat Management: Adjust your thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting. Every degree counts when it comes to energy savings.
2. Seal and Insulate: Ensure your home is sealed properly to keep warm air inside. Drafts can significantly increase the need for heating.
3. Utilize Natural Light: Open blinds and curtains during the day to allow sunlight to warm your home, and close them at night to retain heat.
4. Ceiling Fan Usage: Reverse the rotation of your ceiling fans to push warm air down, enhancing the efficiency of your heating system.

Flexible Billing Options

In addition to energy-saving tips, Duke Energy offers flexible billing options to better accommodate its customers' financial situations. Customers can:

• - Choose Their Due Date: Align their bill due dates with paydays for easier management.
• - Request Due Date Extensions: If financial constraints arise, customers can request short extensions for payment.
• - Utilize Installment Plans: For past-due balances, installment plans can spread the outstanding amounts across several billing cycles, easing the burden.

Additional Support Resources

Duke Energy encourages customers in need of further assistance to explore multiple resources:

• - Payment Assistance Finder: This tool helps locate local organizations that provide aid with utility bills.
• - Share the Light Fund®: Contributions from both the community and Duke Energy support customers eligible for financial assistance with their energy bills.
• - Call 211: This service connects individuals to additional community resources available in their area.

About Duke Energy

Duke Energy is a prominent electric utility company based in Charlotte, North Carolina, serving approximately 8.6 million customers across several states, including South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. As one of the largest energy holding companies in the United States, Duke Energy is committed to transitioning towards cleaner energy sources while ensuring customer reliability. The company is investing heavily in modernizing the electric grid and integrating renewable energy and energy storage solutions.

For further details on energy-saving strategies and available assistance, customers can visit duke-energy.com/WinterEnergySavings. By keeping informed and utilizing available resources, Duke Energy customers can better navigate the challenges presented by extreme weather and manage their energy costs effectively.