Duke Energy Progress submits rate request to regulators in South Carolina

The Public Service Commission of South Carolina (PSCSC) is reviewing the rate request submitted by Duke Energy Progress, which proposes phasing in the proposed rate increases over two years.

If approved, the total net impact of the proposed increase to residential customer bills is 14.7 percent, while commercial and industrial customers will see an average increase of around 7.8 percent.

So, with the phased-in increase, a typical residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity beginning April 1, 2023, will see an increase of $14.36 per month, from $133.01 to $147.37. Starting April 1, 2024, the total monthly impact for a typical residential customer using 1,000 kWh per month would increase an additional $4.40, for an average bill of $151.77 per month.

“We know how important electric service is for our customers, and no one wants to see bills increase,” said Mike Callahan, Duke Energy’s South Carolina state president. “This is particularly true now as rising costs across most sectors of our economy impact consumers and businesses throughout South Carolina and the nation.”

The rate changes reflect continuing efforts by the company to increase system reliability and resiliency, achieve a cleaner, smarter energy future, and enhance the customer experience. Duke Energy Progress serves more than 172,000 customers in the Pee Dee region of South Carolina.

“These challenges affect the energy industry as a whole, and – through smart investments – we’re working hard to meet customers’ expectations and build the foundation for a smarter energy future from which all South Carolinians can benefit. These investments in critical energy infrastructure are the main reason for the proposed rate increase,” Callahan said.

Customers struggling to pay their energy bills might qualify for assistance from various government and nonprofit programs for utility bills and other household expenses.