North Carolina wants data centers in their own rate class

How could Duke Energy data center rates affect my power bill?

North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson asked regulators to create a separate Duke rate class for data centers. He argues this would keep data centers from shifting energy costs to residential customers. Duke Energy Carolinas first sought a 15% increase and lowered it to 11.6%. State regulators are expected to rule in November.

NC Newsline reports that Attorney General Jeff Jackson has asked regulators to create a separate Duke rate class for data centers. WFAE reports that state regulators are expected to rule on the Duke Energy Carolinas rate case in November.

What happened

Jackson argues a separate class would keep data centers from shifting energy costs to residential customers. The Public Staff's proposed tariff would target businesses that request 50 megawatts or more of power. Duke Energy Carolinas first sought a 15% rate increase and lowered it to 11.6% by June 22, 2026.

What it means for your home

Rate decisions in North Carolina are still pending, so bills could change after the ruling. Whatever the outcome, an outage plan covers the same risks.

What to do this week

Read your current Duke bill and note the total, so you can compare future months.
Save your utility's outage page and phone number.
Charge a portable power station and check that its outlets work before storm season.
Keep a fridge thermometer inside the refrigerator so you can check food safety during an outage.

For step-by-step setup, read Run a fridge on a portable power station.

This briefing is general information, not medical, legal or electrical advice. In an emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.