Amid Heat Wave, Duke Energy Offers Customers Ways to Save on Summer Energy Bills

Heat index values are expected to hit triple digits over the next few days.

(Plainfield, Ind.) - With summer temperatures soaring this week, Duke Energy is reminding customers to check out the latest assistance programs that can help them save energy and money.

“We know that summer means increases in the amount of electricity that our residential customers use,” said Larry Hatcher, senior vice president, customer experience and services. “We want our customers to know they have choices and control over their energy use.”

Customer assistance programs fall into three categories – energy efficiency, which help customers use less energy; flexible payment options; and programs designed for income-qualified customers.

Energy Efficiency

 Energy efficiency assistance can range from simple conservation tips to a number of programs to help customers use less energy. They include:

• Usage Alerts: Customers with smart meters who have an email registered with Duke Energy can receive daily or mid-bill cycle alerts that show current energy use and a projection of that month’s bill at the current rate of usage.
• Power Manager: Power Manager is a voluntary program that offers customers financial incentives to allow Duke Energy to make minor adjustments to their thermostats or reduce the run time of their HVAC systems during peak electric demand periods.
• Home audits: Sign up for a free in-home energy efficiency assessment. An energy expert will detail ways to increase efficiency and lower energy use and leave behind a free kit with energy-saving products valued at over $180. 

Billing and Payment Options

For customers who need additional flexibility in how they manage their bills, Duke Energy offers the following options:

• Budget Billing: For those who prefer one predictable payment every month, this program takes the swing out of seasonal energy bills with an average amount that’s periodically reviewed and adjusted.
• Pick Your Due Date: Great for those on a fixed income or for customers who like to manage personal finances once a month, this option allows customers to select their bill due date.
• Installment Payment Plans: Allows more flexibility to pay a past-due balance over a longer period, interest-free. Customers can request a few extra days or restructure the past-due balance into a monthly payment plan. 

Income-Qualified Programs

Duke Energy partners with community and state agencies to help those who are income qualified to access a range of Duke Energy, state and federal assistance programs. Examples include:

• The Weatherization Program: Helps income-qualified customers save energy and reduce expenses through energy conservation measures like weatherstripping and HVAC repairs or replacements.
• The Share the Light Fund: Assists qualifying customers struggling to pay their energy bills. Employees, customers and Duke Energy shareholders contribute to these funds, which are distributed through statewide community action agencies.

For more information on programs available, customers can visit duke-energy.com or call 800.521.2232.