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Plug In, Get Paid: Duke Energy Florida Program Offers Bill Credits For Customers Charging EVs At Certain Times
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Given the Sunshine State has the second-highest electric vehicle (EV) registrations in the nation, Duke Energy Florida is reminding EV-driving customers about the range of programs the company offers to help them save money. For instance, since the Off-Peak Charging Credit program launched in 2022, enrolled customers have received a collective $1.5 million – in the form of bill credits – for changing their charging behavior. How it works: Duke Energy Florida’s Off-Peak Charging
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Duke Energy Protects Customers From Data Center Costs
Duke Energy and stakeholders have reached an agreement that further protects existing customers from costs to serve data centers and other large-load customers in North Carolina. Duke Energy proactively implemented substantial customer protections in 2024 to ensure that large-load customers pay the costs to serve them. The agreement memorializes and enhances those protections. These changes are reflected in a new settlement between the company’s two North Carolina utilities – Duke Energy Carolinas and
CareerSource Central Florida Honors Workforce Champions, Launches 30th Anniversary Campaign
Celebrating partnerships that power Central Florida’s workforce ORLANDO, Fla. (October 1, 2026) – More than 250 business and community leaders gathered at SeaWorld Ports of Call for the second annual Rise & Thrive, presented by Addition Financial Credit Union, where CareerSource Central Florida honored workforce champions and launched its 30th anniversary celebration. The signature event spotlighted employers, education partners, community leaders and career seekers working together to strengthen Central
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Duke Energy Grants $326,500 To Boost Florida’s Economy
Twenty-seven organizations that are strengthening the workforce, supporting business growth and fostering economic development in Florida just received a collective $326,500 from Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation. From nonprofits to government entities, these grant recipients will use the funds to promote careers in emerging industries, attract high-potential companies and/or make it easier to do business in the state. Our view “Every day, more and more people are making beautiful, sunny
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Duke Energy Foundation Awards $100,000 To Support Upward Mobility In Florida
The Duke Energy Foundation is awarding $100,000 to three nonprofit organizations expanding leadership development, career readiness and entrepreneurship opportunities in Central Florida and the Tampa Bay area. Our view: “When people are empowered to learn, grow and pursue their goals, it opens doors for them and many others,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “We’re proud to help create pathways to success and give all Floridians the opportunity to reach their full potential
Two Years After The Storms: Duke Energy Florida Powers Customers With A Stronger Grid
Two years ago, Hurricanes Helene and Milton impacted Florida, resulting in nearly 2 million reported power outages. Since then, Duke Energy Florida has continued its investments in energy infrastructure, resulting in increasingly more reliable service ahead of any future storms. Saving customer outage times during Hurricanes Helene and Milton Duke Energy Florida’s year-round storm hardening efforts, including its advanced self-healing technology and year-round infrastructure work, made a difference in
Duke Energy Foundation, Tampa Bay Rays Donate $93,000 To Help Florida Customers Pay Energy Bills
Duke Energy Florida customers are benefiting from the Tampa Bay Rays winning season. For each Rays win, the Duke Energy Foundation donated $1,000 to the company’s Share the Light Fund, which distributes funds to social service agencies that provide energy bill payment assistance for customers. On Friday, Sept. 18, the Foundation presented $93,000 to 14 agencies serving communities across the state. “We’ve been headquartered in the Tampa Bay area for over 125 years, so we’re naturally big Rays fans.
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Duke Energy Florida Marks Peak Of Hurricane Season With A Stronger Grid, Urges Customers To Prepare
Today marks the meteorological peak of Atlantic hurricane season, a time that Duke Energy Florida prepares for year-round. It’s continual grid-hardening work means energy is more reliable for customers when it’s needed most. Why it matters: Every pole upgrade and self-healing device on the grid reduces how many customers lose power, and how fast they get it back, when a storm hits. By the numbers:60% of wooden transmission poles have been upgraded to stronger materials over the last five
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Duke Energy Florida Requests To Lower Rates In 2027
Duke Energy Florida customers can expect lower rates beginning in January 2027, compared to December 2026, following a request the company filed today with the Florida Public Service Commission (FPSC). What this means:Duke Energy Florida’s typical residential customers using 1,000 kilowatt-hours of energy per month should see a $0.71 decrease on their bills from December 2026 to January 2027. The company’s commercial and industrial customers’ bill reductions will range between 0.8% and 3.6% from
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Duke Energy Florida Launches Its Second Battery Facility Capable Of Providing Backup Power For Customers
Duke Energy Florida has launched its second large-scale battery facility, capable of providing backup power to the local community to prevent outages. The site is located in Trenton, located 30 miles west of Gainesville in Gilchrist County. How it works The 11-megawatt Trenton lithium battery facility was first placed into operation in 2022 to store energy, balance demand and defer traditional power grid improvements. This summer, Duke Energy Florida upgraded the facility so that approximately 1,500
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Duke Energy Florida Builds Student Interest In Energy Careers Through Youth Energy Academy
Duke Energy Florida and more than 20 neighboring utilities, education institutions and community organizations recently completed six summer Youth Energy Academy (YEA) events across Florida. The programs exposed more than 200 students to an inside look at the many career opportunities that exist in the energy industry. Why it matters Nationally, the energy sector faces an increasing workforce gap in both operations roles and STEM careers. Programs like YEA help build the pipeline of skilled workers to
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Duke Energy Florida, Sea Turtle Conservancy and Clearwater Marine Aquarium Return to Treasure Island
Duke Energy Florida, Sea Turtle Conservancy and Clearwater Marine Aquarium returned to Treasure Island last week to review progress in protecting sea turtles during peak nesting season. Why it matters Sea turtle hatchlings are born knowing one rule: head toward the brightest horizon, which on a natural beach is moonlight on the water. Streetlights and beachfront lighting can override that instinct, pulling hatchlings inland towards roads and parking lots instead of the sea. Solving that problem
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What Duke Energy Florida Customers Need To Know As Summer Heat Peaks In August
Recent summers have been 10% to 15% hotter than the long-term average, and August is historically when temperatures peak in Florida. As humidity also rises across the state, AC systems are working harder and using more energy to keep up. In fact, roughly 30% of a single unit’s output can go toward removing moisture. With the hottest month of the year underway, Duke Energy Florida is offering important reminders about what it takes to keep the power flowing, as well as energy efficiency resources to help
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Duke Energy: Data Center Growth Will Deliver Billions Of Dollars In Customer Savings
Duke Energy customers will benefit from billions of dollars in long-term bill relief as data centers begin operations. “Data centers will provide billions of dollars in customer benefits,” said Harry Sideris, president and CEO of Duke Energy. “Duke Energy remains laser-focused on ensuring data centers not only pay their fair share but also yield savings for our existing customers.” Working with customers, regulators and other stakeholders, Duke Energy will ensure growth in energy demand creates lasting
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Sign Up, Sit Back, Save: Duke Energy Florida Program Offers Bill Credits With Minimal Requirements, Little Effort Needed From Customers
Duke Energy Florida’s EnergyWise Home program offers up to $141 in annual bill credits for homeowners and renters. Unlike other resources, it has minimal requirements, and little effort is needed from enrolled customers in order to receive the credits. In fact, most customers start saving immediately – without making any changes to their habits or daily routines. How it worksCustomers enroll select appliances. This enables Duke Energy Florida to reduce their run time during periods of high energy
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Duke Energy Florida’s Neighborhood Energy Saver Program Saves Clearwater Customers Over $3.1m To Date
From the grocery store to the gas pump, household budgets are stretched thin. To help provide relief, Duke Energy Florida’s Neighborhood Energy Saver Program has been offered in the city of Clearwater since the start of the year. The program provides free energy assessments, including recommendations to reduce energy consumption and lower costs. Through May 2026, more than 600 local customers have participated, collectively saving over $3.1 million on their electric bills. Savings opportunities A
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Duke Energy Florida Delivers $50 Million In Customer Savings, Avoids 2027 Base Rate Increase Through Innovative Tax Strategy
Duke Energy Florida is delivering $50 million in customer savings in 2027. The company is implementing an innovative strategy to accelerate the return of tax credits over one year rather than the standard 15-year lifespan of its Powerline Battery Energy Storage System. This will avoid the 2% base rate increase outlined in its multiyear (2025-2027) rate agreement and help keep costs as low as possible for customers. Our view “Our customers count on us to continually look for ways to keep our costs in
Seminole State Unveils New Programs, Upgrades For Fall 2026
New programs and updated spaces support transfer success, workforce education and tech innovation. With the 2026-27 academic year on the horizon, Seminole State College of Florida is adding to its offerings and updating spaces to support student success, meet workforce needs and produce career-ready graduates. The highlights for Fall Term 2026 reflect the College’s continued investment in programs designed to help students prepare for high-demand, high-wage careers in Central Florida. New Transfer
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Duke Energy Foundation Invests $773,000 To Strengthen Stem Education In Florida
The Duke Energy Foundation is awarding $773,000 to 22 nonprofit organizations and higher education institutions working to strengthen STEM education by expanding access to hands-on learning opportunities and helping prepare Florida students for careers in high-demand industries. High-impact investments: Higher Education ($330,000)Florida A&M University Foundation ($25,000)Florida Polytechnic University Foundation ($50,000)Florida State University Foundation ($10,000)Foundation for Seminole State College
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Duke Energy Florida’s Redfish Released Into Crystal River Waters Alongside Citrus County, CCA Florida; Anglers Encouraged To Catch Them For Cash Prizes
This weekend, Duke Energy Florida joined Citrus County and Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) Florida to release 100 redfish at the Pirates Cove Park in Crystal River. The fish were hatched and raised at Duke Energy Florida’s Crystal River Mariculture Center, where more than 5.3 million fish and crustaceans have been cultivated and released since 1991. These efforts help restock declining populations, improve water quality and strengthen ecosystem resilience, while also supporting tourism. Our
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Summer Starts June 21: Duke Energy Florida Highlights Five Key Appliances To Help Customers Manage Energy Use
While summer heat has already settled across Florida, the astronomical start of the season is observed this Sunday, June 21. Duke Energy Florida is helping customers manage their energy use – and their bills – by offering practical tips focused on the five appliances that use the most energy in the home: air conditioners, water heaters, refrigerators, washing machines and dishwashers. The big five:Air Conditioners: Set the thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature and raise it a few more degrees
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Duke Energy Foundation Grants $77,500 To Expand Access To Civic Learning And Remembrance Across Florida
As part of the final round of grants through the Duke Energy Foundation’s America250 initiative, $77,500 is being distributed to seven nonprofit organizations across Florida that are working to expand access to civic learning and remembrance. Among other projects, these efforts include a youth civics competition, a reenactment of the Declaration of Independence signing and the revitalization of a memorial honoring the state’s Medal of Honor recipients. Our view: “As a proud history major, I know
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Duke Energy Joins National Careers Electric™ Coalition To Build Next-Generation Energy Workforce
Duke Energy has joined the newly launched Careers Electric coalition, a new sector-driven approach to workforce development in America’s skilled trades, with a targeted focus on North Carolina. Why it matters: As electrification accelerates across energy, infrastructure and advanced manufacturing, electrical careers are projected to grow by roughly 10% over the next decade, with workforce gaps widening as experienced workers retire. Our role: Duke Energy will help connect training to real-world job
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Investing In Futures: Spring Grants Focus On Workforce Education
Through grants in higher education, colleges can develop new pathways to help students or expand services and offerings to best serve the community.During the Spring Term at Seminole State College of Florida, several grants were awarded that focused on program advancement, adult education, student services and preparing Seminole County’s future workforce. The following grants totaled over $6 million that will help Seminole State expand access to higher education and prepare workforce-ready
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Duke Energy Florida Is Ready For 2026 Hurricane Season Following Continued Grid Hardening Investment
As the 2026 hurricane season begins today, Duke Energy Florida is reinforcing its commitment to reliability and storm response following continued investments in grid hardening efforts. Insights from past storms After a challenging 2024 hurricane season which brought hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton to Duke Energy service areas, the company has continued proactive efforts to strengthen its infrastructure and enhance response capabilities. “We prepare for storm season year-round,” said Melissa
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Duke Energy Florida Implements Third Rate Reduction To Lower Residential Customer Bills By Approximately 25% In 2026
Duke Energy Florida will implement its third rate reduction of 2026 from June through September, lowering residential customer bills by approximately $50, or 25%, for every 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy used when compared to January. The breakdown: Below is an outline of how these rate reductions have and will continue to appear on the bills of Duke Energy Florida’s typical residential customers using 1,000 kWh per month:February 2026: An approximately $33 decrease from the early removal of the
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Duke Energy Florida Completes Solar Energy Site In Sumter County, Estimates $250 Million In Customer Savings Over Its Service Lifetime
Today, Duke Energy Florida announced the completion of the Jumper Creek Solar Complex in Sumter County. The site is part of the company’s plan to build 900 megawatts (MWs) of solar power in Florida by the end of 2028. Reducing rates, diversifying generation mix Expanding solar energy helps displace the cost of fuel, like natural gas, that would otherwise be needed to generate electricity. This creates savings for customers because the price Duke Energy Florida pays for fuel is a direct pass-through cost
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Duke Energy Foundation Awards $50,000 To Organizations Honoring And Supporting Florida Veterans
As Memorial Day approaches, the Duke Energy Foundation is awarding $50,000 to five nonprofit organizations honoring and supporting Florida veterans. These grants – part of the Foundation’s America250 initiative – will primarily help provide former service members with valuable job readiness skills, resources and connections as they transition to civilian life. Our view:Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president: “At Duke Energy, we have a long history of providing career opportunities for
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Qualified Duke Energy Florida Customers Can Get Help with Bills
As the summer season approaches and energy usage reaches its peak, Duke Energy Florida reminds customers of its Payment Assistance Finder, a tool to connect customers with bill assistance. How it works Customers can provide their ZIP code and browse organizations in the area that may be able to provide assistance. Once an organization is identified, the customer can reach out directly to receive assistance. Community partners and organizations include LIHEAP, the Salvation Army, local housing
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Duke Energy Applies For Department Of Energy Loans That Represent Potentially Billions Of Dollars In Customer Savings
Duke Energy today announced it submitted an application for loans from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) that represent potentially billions of dollars in customer savings as the company strengthens the electric grid, adds capacity and reliably serves some of the fastest-growing states in the country. This application to the DOE is the first step in a process to negotiate the final loan amount and stipulations. What this means: Duke Energy is applying for DOE loans to support planned investments to
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Duke Energy Finalizes Two Initiatives To Deliver More Than $5 Billion In Cost-Saving Benefits To Customers
Duke Energy is committed to providing safe and reliable energy at the lowest possible cost and is delivering on that promise with more than $5 billion in cost-saving benefits to the customers and communities it serves. Savings will be achieved through operational innovation and efficiencies designed to lower costs, while protecting reliability and supporting long-term economic growth. These actions are part of our unwavering commitment to deliver affordable energy for our customers across all our states,
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Duke Energy Florida’s Tree Care Practices Earn 20th Consecutive Year Of National Recognition
The Arbor Day Foundation has recognized Duke Energy Florida as a “Tree Line USA” utility for the 20th year in a row for its tree care practices and environmental contribution. Duke Energy achieved Tree Line USA status by fulfilling certain criteria such as following industry standards for quality tree care, including proper pruning, annually training employees and contractors in best practices, sponsoring tree plantings and public education programs and participating in annual Arbor Day events. Free
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Duke Energy Foundation Announces First Round Of America250 Grants To Strengthen Florida Communities
To strengthen communities across Florida as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, the Duke Energy Foundation is awarding $22,500 to five nonprofit organizations through its America250 initiative. The grants are part of a first‑round investment totaling more than $250,000 across the company’s six‑state service area. High-impact investments:The Citizens of Gulf County Recovery Team is preserving affordable housing for Gulf County residents. On 10 lots donated by the Gulf County Board of County
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Duke Energy Honors Lineworkers Who Help Strengthen Grid, Restore Power
On April 18, Duke Energy recognizes National Lineworker Appreciation Day and the lineworkers who keep the lights on. From year-round grid work that improves reliability to storm response, lineworkers bring skill, teamwork and a strong safety focus to the work customers depend on. “Customers trust us to deliver safe, reliable power every day – and to bring it back quickly after storms and other outages,” said Scott Batson, executive vice president and chief power grid officer for Duke Energy. “That’s why
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Duke Energy Florida Hosts Neighborhood Energy Saver Program in Clearwater
Last night, Duke Energy Florida hosted its Neighborhood Energy Saver Program in Clearwater. While over 2,200 local customers are eligible to participate, approximately 75 attended the event, held at the Ross Norton Recreation Center, to learn how they can receive a free walkthrough energy assessment of their homes and help lower their monthly electricity bills. Our view “Our Neighborhood Energy Saver program is just one of the many resources we offer to help connect customers with ways to lower their
Make Plans Now for Our Next Two Professional Women's Luncheons
Our next two Professional Women's Luncheons feature two extremely successful women - Sharon Arroyo with Duke Energy and Tanya Hill Easterling with Florida Blue. If you are in business in Central Florida, you need to know these women and hear their stories of what brought them to their current positions. First, on May 21, Sharon Arroyo takes the stage. Sharon is Duke Energy's Vice President of Government & Community Relations in Florida, serving approximately 1.9 million electric retail
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On Tampa Bay Rays Opening Day, Duke Energy Pledges Funds for Florida Customers Facing Financial Hardships Throughout the 2026 Baseball Season
Duke Energy marks Opening Day of the Tampa Bay Rays baseball season with additional commitments to Floridians. The company and its foundation will donate $1,000 to its Share the Light Fund for every Rays regular-season game win, providing financial support to Florida customers.Support for Florida customers The Share the Light Fund is a customer assistance program to help Florida residents pay utility expenses. Employees, retirees, customers and Duke Energy shareholders contribute to these funds.
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Energy Bill Assistance Available for Qualified Duke Energy Florida Customers
As Duke Energy Florida’s storm cost recovery charges have been removed from customer bills as of February, dropping residential bills approximately $44 for every 1,000 kWh, additional bill assistance resources are available for eligible customers that may face continued payment challenges. In 2025, nearly $30.5 million was delivered to support approximately 31,000 customers. Duke Energy Florida works with community partners and assistance programs to connect eligible customers with financial resources
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Duke Energy Partners With Colleges To Train Next Generation Of Lineworkers
Through the Duke Energy Foundation, Duke Energy is awarding Lake-Sumter State College, Seminole State College of Florida, Valencia College, St. Petersburg College and South Florida State College each $50,000 to support their electrical lineworker training programs. Why it mattersEach program provides students with industry-recognized training and skills that allow them to pursue entry-level positions at electric utilities. Depending on the program, training lasts between seven weeks and 18 months,
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Powering Reliability: Duke Energy Lineworkers Sharpen Skills At Florida Lineman’s Rodeo
This weekend, Duke Energy lineworkers from across Florida advanced from the regional lineman’s rodeo to represent the company at the International Lineman’s Rodeo in Bonner Springs, Kansas, this fall, where they will compete against some of the best lineworkers in the world. Why it matters: For customers, reliability starts with highly trained lineworkers. These competitions sharpen the skills lineworkers use every day – skills that allow them to work quickly, precisely and safely to keep power flowing
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Understanding Higher Energy Bills This Winter – And How Duke Energy Can Help
As customers see higher energy bills during the winter months, Duke Energy is addressing common misconceptions about what’s driving costs higher and sharing ways customers can better manage energy use, payment options and available assistance. What we are hearing: My bill went up because Duke Energy raised rates. Fact: Prolonged cold weather is a major driver of higher bills. Extended periods of cold temperatures cause heating systems to run longer and more frequently to keep homes comfortable. That
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Duke Energy Florida Highlights Record-Low Outage Time For Customers In 2025
In 2025, Duke Energy Florida achieved the lowest average outage duration per customer in more than two decades. At approximately 64 minutes, this record metric – which excludes outage time caused by significant events like named storms – can be attributed, largely, to year-round grid hardening efforts across the state. “Grid hardening” defined: Strategic infrastructure investments allow Duke Energy Florida to continue providing safe, reliable service for customers on “blue-sky” days and in extreme
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Duke Energy Nuclear Fleet Sets New All-Time Reliability Record, Delivers Value For Customers
Duke Energy’s nuclear fleet set a new reliability record in 2025, providing communities across the Carolinas with around-the-clock power customers can count on. Steady, predictable output from nuclear units strengthens grid reliability and helps manage system costs, directly supporting growing energy needs. By the numbers:Duke Energy’s nuclear plants were generating power a combined 96.9% of the time in 2025, a new record for systemwide capacity factor. The fleet’s strong performance resulted in
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Duke Energy Is Here To Help Florida Customers After Cold Snap
Floridians will likely see higher power bills after last week’s cold snap, but Duke Energy is here to help its customers with bill-payment resources and important fraud prevention information. What to knowHigher bills ahead: As temperatures plunged, customers’ heating systems worked harder, requiring more energy. But rates are still going down: Compared to January, residential customers using 1,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity will see a $33 reduction on their February bills – and another $11
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Duke Energy Leverages AI To Protect Customers And Combat Scams
Duke Energy is advancing its commitment to customer safety by deploying artificial intelligence (AI) to detect scams targeting energy customers. This innovative technology scans websites, social media and paid advertisements for open-source social engineering threats, helping to protect customers from fraudulent schemes. “As scammers become more sophisticated, Duke Energy is proactively working to protect customers from bad actors. Our commitment is to protect our communities and create a secure platform
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Duke Energy Florida Launches Residential Battery Storage Pilot In Orlando’s Hunter’s Creek Neighborhood
Duke Energy Florida has launched an energy-saving pilot project in the Hunter’s Creek neighborhood of Orlando. As part of the initiative, battery energy storage systems (BESS) have been installed in more than 75 participating single-family homes to help manage energy use and support the electric grid during high-demand periods. The pilot evaluates how home battery systems can be used for demand response by supplying stored energy during times of peak demand. When available, excess stored energy can also
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Duke Energy Florida’s Smart, Self-Healing Technology Investments Help Keep Customers’ Lights On
Even after Florida’s first storm season in recent years without a direct hit from hurricanes, Duke Energy Florida’s smart, self-healing technology continues to prove its reliability by reducing outage times for customers. In 2025 alone, self-healing technology helped avoid more than 280,000 extended power outages for Duke Energy Florida customers. Self-healing technology explained: Duke Energy Florida uses groundbreaking self-healing technology that automatically detects outages and quickly reroutes
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Duke Energy: Thank You, Florida Customers, For Conserving Energy During Extreme Cold On Monday Morning
Duke Energy thanks its customers across Florida for reducing their electricity use on Monday morning as extreme cold pushed demand for power higher than normal. Customers’ actions helped lessen strain on the electric grid and supported reliable service during one of the coldest mornings of the season. “Customer conservation made a meaningful difference today,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “We appreciate every household and business that adjusted their routines to help manage
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Low Temperatures Drive Higher Energy Use; Duke Energy Is Here To Help With Ways To Manage Your Bill
Prolonged below-normal temperatures are pushing home energy use higher across the Carolinas – and higher use can mean higher bills. Duke Energy is sharing practical steps and flexible options to help customers manage costs during this cold stretch. What’s happening: The Carolinas are experiencing an unusually long stretch of cold weather, with several days of temperatures at or below freezing – about 10 to 20 degrees below what’s typical for this time of year.It could be the longest cold stretch since
Habitat for Humanity Seminole-Apopka Welcomes New Leadership to Accelerate Mission in Central Florida
Habitat for Humanity Seminole–Apopka announced today an expanded leadership team with the appointment of Ed Schrank as Chief Construction Officer and Lisa Junkerman as Chief Growth Officer. The additions will support and accelerate the affiliate’s continued growth and mission to increase affordable housing access in Central Florida. Schrank brings over 45 years of experience in commercial and residential construction, real estate development, and project management, along with significant work in the
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Duke Energy Announces Leadership Changes In Its Generation And Operational Excellence Organization
Duke Energy today announced executive vice president, chief generation officer and enterprise operational excellence, Preston Gillespie's decision to retire after 40 years of dedicated service to the company. To support a smooth transition, Preston will remain on board through March 1, 2027, and beginning March 1, 2026, will have responsibility for guiding the Company’s critical decision about new nuclear. “Our customers rely on us for dependable, affordable energy, while a rapidly changing world demands
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Duke Energy Florida Announces Storm Cost Recovery Charge Will Be Removed From Customers’ Bills A Month Early
Today, Duke Energy Florida announced that the storm cost recovery charge – the result of costs associated with the company’s approximately $1.1 billion response to hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton – will be removed from customers’ bills a month earlier than originally scheduled. What this means Because the full amount for all three storms was recovered ahead of schedule, beginning in February (instead of March):Residential customers can expect an approximately $33 reduction on their monthly bills,
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Duke Energy Florida’s Tree Giveaway Encourages Customers To Plant The Right Tree In The Right Place To Keep The Power Flowing
Duke Energy Florida will give away 1,000 free trees to its customers as part of its ongoing collaboration with the Arbor Day Foundation. On Friday, Jan. 16, which is also Florida Arbor Day, Duke Energy Florida customers can request a free tree online at https://get.arborday.org/dukeenergy, while supplies last. How it works The 1-gallon trees are shipped directly to customers’ homes with planting and care instructions and are expected to be delivered in time for National Arbor Day in April. Available
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Duke Energy Florida Unveils Nation’s First System Capable Of Producing, Storing And Combusting 100% Green Hydrogen
Today, Duke Energy Florida unveiled its DeBary Hydrogen Production Storage System in Volusia County, the first demonstration project in the United States capable of using an end-to-end system to produce, store and combust up to 100% green hydrogen. How it worksThis one-of-its-kind system begins with Duke Energy Florida’s existing DeBary solar site, which provides energy for two electrolyzer units that separate water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen atoms. The resulting oxygen is released into the
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Duke Energy Florida Customers Will Save More Than $1 Billion In Energy Costs From Company’s 2025 Infrastructure Investments
Throughout 2025, Duke Energy Florida teams have completed many targeted investments designed to boost energy reliability, reduce customer rates and expand capacity to meet growing energy demands. These investments span new additions to the company’s renewables portfolio, upgrades to its natural gas power plants, storm hardening efforts, expansion of self-healing technology and innovation in carbon-free energy development. Together, the projects are saving customers more than $1 billion. What it means
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Duke Energy Florida And Community Partners Help Families In Need In 2025
Through the Share the Light Fund®, Duke Energy Florida and the Duke Energy Foundation, employees and customers contributed nearly $650,000 to community partners in 2025 alone – helping keep the lights on for families in need when it mattered the most. A significant portion of that support was from Duke Energy Foundation, including $1,000 for every Tampa Bay Rays regular season win – totaling $82,000 – as well as increased funding to help ensure customers stayed safe and comfortable during the extreme
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Duke Energy Florida Completes Solar Energy Sites In Hernando And Sumter Counties, Estimates $500 Million In Customer Savings
Today, Duke Energy Florida announced the completion of two new solar energy sites: Half Moon Renewable Energy Center in Sumter County and Rattler Renewable Energy Center in Hernando County. Why it mattersExpanding solar energy helps displace the cost of fuel, like natural gas, that would otherwise be needed to generate electricity. This creates savings for customers because the price Duke Energy Florida pays for fuel is a direct pass-through cost reflected on their bills. The two solar sites each
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Duke Energy Florida Completes Latest Natural Gas Plant Upgrades Contributing To $340 Million In Annual Fuel Savings For Customers
Duke Energy Florida has completed efficiency upgrades at Bartow Power Plant in St. Petersburg and two units at Hines Energy Complex in Bartow, allowing the plants to produce a total of 255 megawatts (MW) of additional energy with the same amount of fuel. Including the 60-MW capacity improvement previously completed at the Osprey Energy Center in Auburndale and approximately 16 MW added at the Citrus Combined Cycle Station in Crystal River this fall, more than 330 MW of capacity have been added to the
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Duke Energy Offers ‘12 Days Of Savings’ Energy Efficiency Tips
The holidays are a time for family and celebration, but they often bring higher energy use as temperatures decline. To help customers stay energy smart, Duke Energy is introducing ‘12 Days of Savings’ – a schedule of simple energy efficiency tips designed to help customers save energy and money. “During the holidays, energy use naturally increases due to cooler temperatures and shorter days,” said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president. “Our goal is to make it easy for customers to take
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Duke Energy Names Katie Aittola As Head Of Supply Chain And Real Estate, And Chief Procurement Officer
Duke Energy today announced that Katie Aittola will become senior vice president, supply chain and real estate, and chief procurement officer, effective Jan. 1. She succeeds Dwight Jacobs, who has announced his intention to retire at the end of the year after 23 years of service. Aittola will lead sourcing and supply chain functions for the enterprise. She will also oversee the company’s real estate function, responsible for strategic planning, transactions and facilities management in support of energy
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10th Annual Utility Scam Awareness Day: Putting Customers First In The Fight Against Scams
Duke Energy, Piedmont Natural Gas and the Better Business Bureau are joining Utilities United Against Scams for the 10th annual Utility Scam Awareness Day on Nov. 19 – an ongoing commitment to helping customers slow down, verify and stop the scam. What’s happening For a decade, Utility Scam Awareness Day has helped customers stay ahead of scammers. Our priority is keeping your money and personal information safe.2025 to date: Duke Energy has received nearly 3,000 scam reports in the Carolinas through
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Duke Energy Awards $300,000 Toward Climate Resiliency Initiatives To Support Conservation And Restoration in Florida
Duke Energy Foundation allocated $300,000 to 13 mission-driven organizations focused on preserving Florida’s natural landscapes and strengthening climate resilience. Why it matters: The grants fund a range of environmental programs designed to enhance Florida’s natural resiliency and promote long-term sustainability. The initiatives include projects focused on water quality, conservation, habitat restoration, forestry, species protection and community-based conservation efforts. Each grant supports a
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Duke Energy Shares Ways To Save Energy And Money As Coldest Air Of The Season Arrives Next Week
With the coldest air of the season forecast to arrive early next week, Duke Energy is committed to helping customers across the Carolinas save energy and money as heating systems work harder. By acting now, customers can take more control of their energy use – even as temperatures drop well below typical November averages. Customers participating in our energy efficiency programs have seen more than $1 billion in bill savings since 2019, highlighting the meaningful impact participating in the programs
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Duke Energy Florida Receives Approval To Lower Customer Bills Beginning In March 2026
Today, the Florida Public Service Commission approved Duke Energy Florida’s request to lower customer bills beginning in March 2026, and as a result, residential customers can anticipate an approximately $44 decrease for every 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity they use when compared to February 2026. “Having operated in Florida for more than 125 years, we’re deeply embedded in the communities we serve, and we understand the challenges our customers – often our neighbors – face in order to provide
The Emerald Awards, A Salute To Black Excellence In Seminole County Announces Winners
The Emerald Awards, A Salute to Black Excellence in Seminole County, presented by Breaking Bread Beyond, Inc., and Radiantly Black Lifestyle Magazine is proud to announce the 2025 Award winners. Held on Saturday, November 1, at The Rink at Northland Church, the event was a grand affair, filled with pomp and circumstance. This past summer, a Call for Nominations was issued to the public, inviting nominations for inspiring and high achieving African Americans who live, work, or serve in Seminole County.
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Keep Energy Vampires from Draining Your Wallet this Halloween
This Halloween, Duke Energy Florida alerts customers about energy vampires, devices which are hidden users of energy even when switched off. The devices continue to consume energy year-round, leading to higher electricity consumption and energy bills. They can drain energy – and potential savings from your energy bill – accounting for as much as 20% of your total energy costs. Customers can save money by finding energy vampires and making energy-efficient updates:Unplug unused electronics. Chargers,
Duke Energy Announces Loree Elswick As President Of The Duke Energy Foundation
Duke Energy announced today the appointment of Loree Elswick as the new president of the Duke Energy Foundation. “Loree’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for our communities,” said Pepper Natonski, senior vice president of federal affairs, sustainability, and philanthropy at Duke Energy. “As we work to meet the growing energy needs of our customers while keeping costs as low as possible, the Foundation’s role in strengthening the places we call home has never been more important. Loree’s
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Duke Energy Florida Launches Energy Star® Multifamily New Construction Incentive
Duke Energy Florida has launched a new ENERGY STAR incentive program, enabling multifamily builders to receive a $500 credit for each individually metered unit which meets ENERGY STAR certification criteria. The incentive can be combined with an additional $500 tax credit from ENERGY STAR. How it works To receive the rebate, builders will need to:Submit the Energy Star Homes Programs Intake Form Register as a Duke Energy Trade Ally Complete ENERGY STAR certification requirement with
Cranes Roost Park Events – October, November & December 2025
Calvary Orlando Church Day of Hope| October 24 | 7 – 9 p.m.Join Calvary Orlando for a Day of Hope community event featuring music, a kids’ zone, food vendors and more. Admission is free.Howl-O-Ween 2025| October 25 | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.Franklin’s Friends is hosting the 12th annual HOWL-O-WEEN Dog Walk-a-Thon and Canine Costume Contest at Cranes Roost Park. The event features a dog walk, costume contest, adoptable dogs, pet-friendly vendors, music, food trucks and more, with all proceeds benefiting Franklin’s
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EEI Announces Duke Energy Florida As Emergency Response Award Recipient
Duke Energy Florida today was announced as an Edison Electric Institute (EEI) Emergency Response Award recipient. Presented to EEI member companies twice a year, the Emergency Response Awards recognize recovery and assistance efforts of electric companies following service disruptions caused by extreme weather or other natural events. The winners were chosen by a panel of judges following an international nomination process. The awards were presented during EEI’s Fall Board of Directors and Chief
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Duke Energy Florida Announces $100,000 In Grants For Pinellas County Organizations Supporting Hurricane Recovery
In recognition of the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene, Duke Energy Florida, joined by several members of the Pinellas County legislative delegation, today announced $100,000 in grants to organizations serving the local community and helping residents as they continue to recover from the 2024 hurricane season. “Our commitment to our customers goes well beyond keeping the lights on,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “With these grants, we want to ensure all who were
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Duke Energy Florida Reflects On One-Year Anniversaries Of Hurricanes Helene And Milton, Plans For Future
Nearly one year ago, Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida within just weeks, impacting nearly 2 million customers. The two storms resulted in an unprecedented level of activation as Duke Energy Florida mobilized nearly 25,000 workers and resources to restore outages. Most outages were restored within 72 hours of the storm strikes. Over the last several years following storm impacts, Duke Energy has been working year-round to strengthen its infrastructure, including investments
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A Home Run Partnership: Duke Energy Foundation, Tampa Bay Rays Donate $82,000 To Help Florida Customers Pay Energy Bills
Duke Energy Foundation and the Tampa Bay Rays announced a $82,000 donation to help customers across Florida pay their energy bills. With every Tampa Bay Rays win during the 2025 regular season, Duke Energy Foundation donated $1,000 to the company’s Share the Light Fund, which distributes funds to community agencies that provide utility bill assistance for customers in need. The Foundation presented grants to 14 agencies during the Rays’ final home game of the season this weekend. “While rates will
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Duke Energy’s Smart, Self-Healing Technology Helps Keep The Lights On For Florida Customers
Today marks the mid-point of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, and Duke Energy Florida is highlighting the company’s smart, self-healing technology and its significant benefits to customers. Self-healing technology explained: Similar to a GPS navigation system that can identify an accident ahead and update a route, Duke Energy Florida uses self-healing technology to automatically detect outages and reroute power to other lines. It helps restore service faster for customers – often in less than a
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Duke Energy Florida Announces Significantly Lower Bills In 2026; Residential Customers Using 1,000 Kwh To See Approximately $44 Decrease Beginning In March
Today, Duke Energy Florida announced a substantial rate reduction in 2026 as a result of the company’s annual rate adjustment. Message to customers: “Duke Energy Florida understands our customers face financial challenges, often making difficult decisions regarding which bill they can afford to pay,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “That’s why keeping costs low remains a priority for us, and we’ll continue connecting them with assistance programs and tools to help them
