Duke Energy Corporation - DUK STOCK NEWS

Duke Energy has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.985 per share on its common stock, payable on March 16, 2022, to shareholders of record by February 18, 2022. The Series A preferred stock dividend is set at $359.375 per share, while the Series B preferred stock will have a semiannual dividend of $24.375. Duke Energy boasts a history of consistent dividends, having paid cash dividends for 96 consecutive years. The company aims for a 50% carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

Duke Energy Florida is investing $200,000 in economic development initiatives aimed at attracting and growing businesses throughout the state. These funds will support various community partners, helping to address recruitment and workforce challenges. Notably, Enterprise Florida received a $25,000 grant to enhance its collaboration with site selection consultants and corporate real estate executives through Team Florida events. Other grants were allocated to several organizations, focusing on marketing, workforce development, and business attraction across different regions of Florida.

Duke Energy has announced the allocation of $250,000 in grants to support educational and community initiatives across Florida. These grants aim to assist various organizations addressing economic challenges and enhance educational opportunities. Notable recipients include Find, Feed & Restore, which supports homeless families, and the Foundation for Seminole State College, which offers workforce training. The company emphasizes the importance of these programs in helping families and students overcome barriers, especially during ongoing academic challenges.

Piedmont Natural Gas has requested approval from North Carolina and South Carolina utility commissions to lower customer billing rates due to a decline in natural gas market costs. If approved, residential bills will drop by approximately $5 monthly, totaling $15 for Q1 2022, effective Jan. 1, 2022. The company emphasizes its commitment to pass on market costs without markup. Piedmont encourages customers to use their Equal Payment Program and offers assistance programs for those facing financial difficulties.

The Duke Energy Foundation has awarded $523,000 in grants to enhance emergency preparedness and support diversity initiatives across Florida. The funding benefits 26 organizations, including local emergency management departments, which aid during disasters. Notable projects include Orange County's mobile Community Resilience Pod for emergency aid and support for Hispanic entrepreneurs through Prospera. Duke Energy aims to bolster community resilience while promoting social justice. The foundation allocates over $30 million annually, funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars.

Duke Energy Florida has proposed a fuel adjustment to manage the impact of rising natural gas prices on customer bills. The adjustment will take effect in March 2022, spreading recovery of $247 million in fuel costs over two years, which is expected to increase residential bills by an average of $6.62 per month. Commercial customers may see increases between 4% and 10%. The company aims to minimize financial strain on consumers and maintain cost-effective energy management amidst a 45% rise in natural gas prices since January 2021.

Duke Energy Florida has announced a $150,000 contribution to the Coastal Conservation Association Florida, focusing on marine fisheries conservation and education. A significant portion, approximately $100,000, will fund three new reef systems in the Gulf of Mexico. The collaboration aims to deploy artificial reefs to enhance marine habitats, improve fisheries, and boost local fishing opportunities. Additionally, Duke Energy has provided a $50,000 grant for research on mitigating fish kills due to red tide, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship and community support.

Duke Energy Florida has chosen Alachua and Pinellas counties for its 2021 Site Readiness Program, aimed at enhancing industrial site opportunities. This initiative seeks to prepare sites for economic development investments, partnering with local officials and stakeholders to boost job creation. The program has driven significant economic impact since 2013, contributing to 680 new jobs and $183 million in capital investment. Florida's economic growth has continued, underscored by Duke Energy's role in attracting over 306 companies and nearly $4.5 billion in investments since 2001.

Duke Energy (DUK) has issued a reminder to its Florida customers regarding potential increases in winter energy bills due to rising natural gas prices. The company provides various resources to help customers manage their energy expenses, including free Home Energy Checks and recommendations for energy-saving measures. Key programs like Budget Billing and Pick Your Due Date aim to offer financial flexibility. Duke Energy emphasizes its commitment to supporting customers facing economic hardships by promoting assistance programs and energy-saving tools.