Duke Energy Corporation - DUK STOCK NEWS

Duke Energy has launched the Energy Industry Second Chance Pilot Program in South Carolina, aiming to reduce recidivism by helping former prisoners reintegrate into the workforce. The initiative provided nearly $27,000 in funding from the Duke Energy Foundation to cover training and essential services like transportation and financial literacy. Participants received on-the-job training in utility vegetation management and will continue with Lewis Tree Service post-training, addressing both labor shortages and community reintegration.

Duke Energy Florida has announced a $100,000 donation to Coastal Conservation Association Florida (CCA Florida), adding to a previous $150,000 contribution. This funding supports marine fisheries conservation, education, and research efforts, notably the deployment of new artificial reefs along the Gulf of Mexico. The donation was revealed at CCA Florida's banquet and aligns with Duke's commitment to enhancing Florida's marine habitats. To date, Duke Energy and CCA Florida have released over 100,000 redfish and spotted sea trout to improve fishing opportunities.

Duke Energy Foundation announced grants exceeding $300,000 to support 24 K-12 education programs in Indiana. This initiative aims to assist communities recovering from pandemic-related disruptions, emphasizing STEM education and support for underrepresented populations. Over the last three years, the foundation has awarded more than $1.1 million to enhance educational opportunities statewide. Notable projects include hands-on science kits and professional development for teachers, reflecting a commitment to fostering student success in an evolving educational landscape.

Duke Energy has completed three new battery storage projects in Florida, totaling nearly 34 megawatts. The facilities located in Highlands, Gilchrist, and Gulf counties aim to modernize grid operations and improve reliability during outages. The projects include an 18-megawatt site at Lake Placid Solar Power Plant, an 11-megawatt facility in Trenton, and a 5.5-megawatt site at Cape San Blas. Duke Energy will operate six battery sites in Florida by the end of 2022, totaling 50 megawatts, part of a larger $2 billion investment in solar generation and battery technology in the state.

Duke Energy is assisting Indiana customers with energy bill management by highlighting available state and federal programs. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides federal aid for households earning below certain income thresholds. Additionally, the 2-1-1 service connects customers to local agencies for various support needs, while the Share the Light Fund offers direct assistance for electric bills. Duke Energy also promotes energy-saving solutions to help customers save costs. The company serves approximately 860,000 customers in Indiana.

Honeywell (Nasdaq: HON) and Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions (NYSE: DUK) announced a partnership to enhance energy resiliency across the U.S. The collaboration aims to address energy security by developing microgrid solutions that help communities manage power outages and climate disruptions. With increased power interruptions, the alliance will integrate solar, battery storage, and smart city technologies to bolster critical services like water distribution. Honeywell's initiatives under the HEER program will further support the implementation of these sustainable energy solutions.

Duke Energy announced a new $500,000 microgrant program aimed at enhancing emergency preparedness and storm resiliency in South Carolina. The initiative targets communities affected by severe weather events, providing grants up to $20,000 for training, equipment, and planning. Applications open on March 7 and close on April 29, with decisions expected by May 20. This program aligns with Duke Energy's commitment to community support and disaster preparedness, emphasizing the importance of resource availability for local agencies.