Overview
- An initial state report says average electricity bills rose about 22% since 2020 and could climb 40% to 60% over the next 15 years.
- Duke Energy forecasts 16% to 60% net‑load growth through 2040, with data centers comprising roughly 30% of projects yet accounting for about 80% of projected new demand.
- Nearly two‑thirds of recent bill increases stem from fuel costs, especially natural gas, alongside pressures from an aging grid and concentrated large loads.
- Nine preliminary recommendations target large users, including large‑load tariffs, bring‑your‑own‑capacity options, incentives for load flexibility, interconnection reforms, and review of data center tax exemptions.
- Separately, Duke Energy has proposed roughly a 15% rate increase that could add about $20 to $30 to monthly bills, with North Carolina Utilities Commission hearings set for July and August 2026.