Duke Energy Carolinas Seeks Rate Review to Support Grid Upgrades and Energy Reliability in South Carolina
Duke Energy Carolinas has formally requested that the Public Service Commission of South Carolina (PSCSC) initiate a public review of its current electric rates, marking the company’s first base rate request since early 2024. The move comes in response to extensive investments made across its South Carolina service territory, aimed at building a more resilient, reliable, and future-ready energy system.
The company serves nearly 680,000 retail electric customers in the state, across counties including Abbeville, Anderson, Cherokee, Chester, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Kershaw, Lancaster, Laurens, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Pickens, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union, and York.
Rate Adjustment Proposal
In its latest application, Duke Energy Carolinas is seeking an overall annual revenue increase of approximately $150.5 million. This represents a 7.7% rise over current revenue levels. If approved, the revised rates would take effect on March 1, 2026.
For residential customers, this would mean a monthly bill increase of about $10.38 for those consuming 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month. Their average monthly cost would rise from $136.82 to $147.19. Commercial customers can expect an average rate hike of 5.4%, while industrial customers will see an approximate increase of 5.2%. However, actual changes will vary depending on customer classification and how much revenue is required to meet the cost of service for each group.
Strategic Investments Driving the Request
Duke Energy Carolinas highlights that the requested rate adjustments are necessary to support ongoing and future investments critical to maintaining and improving energy service across the state. These efforts include:
- Strengthening the electric grid to reduce outage durations and expand capacity.
- Enhancing storm resilience by reinforcing critical infrastructure against extreme weather events.
- Upgrading generation assets to ensure consistent, affordable, and reliable electricity for South Carolinians.
“South Carolinians increasingly expect higher levels of reliability, faster restoration times, and more efficient service. We’re responding with targeted investments that not only meet current needs but also help prepare for long-term growth and demand,” the company said in a statement.
Demonstrating Results
One clear example of the company’s ongoing work is its investment in smart grid and automation technology. During the recent impact of Hurricane Helene across the Carolinas, Duke Energy Carolinas’ modernized grid infrastructure played a key role in reducing service interruptions.
Smart, self-healing grid technology — which can detect and isolate outages automatically and reroute power to unaffected lines — restored service to more than 35,000 customers during the storm without the need for manual intervention. These systems prevented over 153,000 total hours of outage time, highlighting the importance of continued investment in advanced grid solutions.
Responsible and Disciplined Approach
Duke Energy Carolinas emphasizes that its current request follows a measured, disciplined approach to rate changes. The company noted that its decision to seek a rate review now reflects not only the scale of recent investments but also the need to ensure continued service quality and economic viability.
“As we invest in modern energy solutions for our customers, we remain focused on operational excellence and financial responsibility,” the company noted. “This approach helps ensure that any rate increases are well-justified, appropriately timed, and aligned with customer needs and expectations.”
Supporting South Carolina’s Growth
Beyond serving existing customers, Duke Energy’s investments are also aimed at supporting South Carolina’s continued economic development. As the state experiences population growth, new business development, and expanding energy needs, the company’s infrastructure improvements are designed to keep pace and help ensure reliable, affordable energy for years to come.
“Our customers rely on us to power their homes, businesses, and communities — and we take that responsibility seriously,” the company said. “This rate proposal enables us to continue delivering on that commitment while building a stronger, smarter energy future for South Carolina.”
The proposed rate adjustment now awaits regulatory review by the PSCSC, which includes opportunities for public input before any final decision is made.
