Duke Energy rate hike and end of $42 credit may raise winter bills in Raleigh area

Duke Energy customers in the Raleigh area could see higher electricity bills this winter due to an upcoming rate increase and the scheduled end of a $42 monthly bill credit program, WRAL reported.

The credit program, which helps about 80,000 customers, is set to expire on December 31, removing a financial cushion for many households just as colder weather increases heating needs.

Despite efforts by some residents to reduce energy use through efficiency upgrades and insulation, these changes may still lead to higher overall costs, according to WRAL's coverage.

The combination of higher rates and the loss of the credit is expected to add pressure to budgets already stretched thin, particularly for those on fixed incomes or with limited financial flexibility.

Duke Energy's rate increase is planned to begin in January, coinciding with the end of the bill credit program, signaling a challenging winter for many local residents.