Duke Energy Offers 65% Off Thermostats to 8.7M Customers Before 90°F Heat
Duke Energy forecasts 90°F-plus days in its Carolinas service area, warning 8.7 million electric and 1.6 million gas customers of increased cooling demand. It is offering free home energy assessments and up to 65% off Ecobee smart thermostats through May 25 to improve efficiency and reduce peak load strain.
1. Heat Forecast and Demand Pressure
Temperatures in Duke Energy’s North Carolina and South Carolina territories are expected to reach the 90s, with humidity pushing feels-like readings toward 100°F. This sudden spike in heat will drive residential and commercial cooling systems to operate longer, risking higher peak demand on the grid.
2. Customer Efficiency Programs
To help manage load and energy use, Duke Energy is urging customers to replace air filters, clear debris around outdoor units, and adjust thermostat settings. The company is providing free home energy assessments through its in-home program and offering up to 65% off Ecobee smart thermostats until May 25.
3. Service Footprint and Infrastructure
Duke Energy serves 8.7 million electric and 1.6 million natural gas customers across North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, with a combined capacity of 55,700 MW. The utility is executing grid modernization investments to strengthen system resilience and support growing summer load.
4. Impact on Peak Demand and Financials
By enhancing customer efficiency and reducing peak loads, Duke Energy aims to lower wholesale power procurement costs and defer infrastructure upgrades. Improved load management during extreme heat can contribute to margin stability and optimize capital expenditure timing.