#United States #Charlotte #Duke Energy #Power Outages #Carolinas Storm

Duke Energy's Preparations for the Upcoming Winter Storm

As winter approaches, Duke Energy is on high alert and closely monitoring weather forecasts for a significant winter storm that threatens to impact the Carolinas. The anticipated mixture of snow and ice could result in power outages across multiple regions, prompting the utility company to take preemptive measures to mitigate potential disruptions.

In a recent statement, Jason Hollifield, Duke Energy's storm director for the Carolinas, emphasized the importance of customer preparedness. He urged residents to have contingency plans in place, noting, "As snowy and icy conditions approach, we're encouraging customers to prepare and have a plan in case they experience a power outage. Our crews are prepared and will work as quickly and safely as possible to restore power if outages occur for our customers."

Understanding the Risks of Winter Weather

Winter storms pose unique challenges, particularly regarding electricity supply. Ice accumulation on trees and power lines significantly increases the likelihood of outages. For instance, an ice buildup of just a quarter inch can lead to downed branches and disrupted service, while a half inch can cause power lines to sag dangerously or even break. Additionally, heavy snow, especially if it accumulates to six inches or more, can bring down trees and branches onto power lines, compounding the outage risks.

Grid Reliability Initiatives

Duke Energy has invested heavily in grid resilience initiatives designed to improve service reliability and minimize the duration and frequency of outages. Among these efforts are routine tree trimming, infrastructure upgrades, and the installation of advanced smart grid technologies. These self-healing technologies enable the grid to quickly identify outages and reroute electricity to affected areas, enhancing restoration efforts for customers.

In 2024 alone, these advancements helped circumvent over 1.2 million potential outages in the Carolinas, saving customers approximately 3.4 million hours of lost power. Notably, about 60% of these benefits were during periods of severe weather, showcasing the importance of ongoing investment in infrastructure reliability.

Outage Reporting Procedures

In the aftermath of a storm, Duke Energy prioritizes restoring power safely and effectively while keeping customers informed. Residents experiencing power outages can report them using several methods:

• - Text OUT to 57801 (standard text and data charges may apply)
• - Duke Energy Mobile App: Available for download via the Apple Store or Google Play.
• - Website: Visit duke-energy.com/outages for real-time updates.
• - Phone: Call the automated outage reporting system at 800.POWERON (800.769.3766).
• - Interactive Map: Check the outage map for updates on existing outages and estimated restoration times.

Winter Storm Safety Guidelines

To ensure safety during extreme winter weather, Duke Energy stresses the importance of preparation. Key safety reminders include:

• - Keep mobile phones charged and stock up on flashlights, batteries, and bottled water.
• - Keep a supply of nonperishable foods and medications accessible.
• - If using a generator, follow manufacturer safety guidelines, ensuring it’s operated outdoors.
• - Never use barbecue grills or similar equipment indoors due to carbon monoxide risk.
• - Stay clear of any downed power lines and report them immediately to authorities.
• - Have a plan for alternative shelter if necessary, particularly for those with special medical needs.
• - If a power line falls across your vehicle, remain inside unless it’s unsafe.
• - Exercise caution while driving, especially in hazardous conditions, and yield to utility crews on the road.

Further safety measures and storm preparation tips are available on Duke Energy’s website at duke-energy.com/safety-and-preparedness/storm-safety.

Energy Efficiency Tips during Winter

As temperatures drop, Duke Energy is committed to helping customers optimize their energy use while saving money. Simple energy-saving steps include:

• - Lowering the thermostat to a comfortable, yet energy-efficient level.
• - Regular maintenance of heating systems to ensure optimal performance.
• - Utilizing natural sunlight to warm homes during the day by opening curtains, while closing them at night for insulation.
• - Sealing cracks around doors and windows to cut heating costs by 10-20%.
• - Switching to LED bulbs for greater efficiency.
• - Adjusting water heater settings to 120 degrees.

Duke Energy, headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is recognized as one of the largest energy providers in the United States, serving 8.4 million electric customers across various states. As the company works toward a clean energy future, proactive measures during severe weather exemplify its commitment to reliability, safety, and service excellence. For more information on Duke Energy’s sustainability initiatives and customer resources, visit duke-energy.com.