Duke Energy Corporation - DUK STOCK NEWS

Duke Energy has awarded $615,000 in grants to 19 workforce development and education programs in North Carolina, aimed at preparing job seekers for employment in the energy sector. This funding is part of a larger commitment of $6.3 million over five years. The initiatives focus on community colleges and historically black institutions, helping to build a diverse workforce to meet local industry needs. Notable recipients include North Carolina A&T State University, which received a $75,000 grant for its engineering program.

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions has commenced the commercial operation of the 182-MW Maryneal Windpower project in Nolan County, Texas. This project boosts Duke Energy's U.S. wind capacity to over 3,000 MW and is expected to supply renewable energy to more than 54,000 homes. T-Mobile signed a 12-year virtual power purchase agreement for 173.3 MW, aligning with its sustainability goals. The project also generated about 200 jobs during construction and will provide significant local tax revenues. Duke Energy aims for 16 GW of renewable energy by 2025 and 47 GW by 2050.

Piedmont Natural Gas has acquired a compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling station in Greer, S.C., from Spire CNG Inc.. This marks Piedmont's 12th CNG station in its three-state service area, with four located in South Carolina. The station, featuring six fast-fill pumps and 24/7 access, aims to boost sustainability by offering lower-cost, lower-emission CNG. With CNG prices below conventional fuels, it provides significant savings for fleets. Natural gas vehicles are noted for being 90% cleaner than federal NOx standards, further supporting Piedmont's sustainability initiatives.

Duke Energy Florida has announced the locations of four new solar power plants, part of its initiative to expand renewable energy generation. The company plans to invest an estimated $1 billion in constructing 10 solar power plants by late 2024, which will collectively produce around 750 megawatts of solar power. The projects emphasize cost-effective, clean energy and are projected to power approximately 23,000 homes each at peak production. This investment is part of Duke Energy's broader commitment to a cleaner energy future in Florida.

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) issued a response to Elliott Management's latest letter, asserting its commitment to long-term shareholder value amidst Elliott's short-term agendas. Duke Energy criticized Elliott for failing to provide actionable ideas for improving shareholder value and rejected its previous proposals, including a $7 billion equity scheme and a complex company breakup. Duke's management emphasized continuous engagement with shareholders and highlighted its strong Total Shareholder Return of 47% over three years. The company aims for a 5% to 7% adjusted EPS growth rate through 2025 while leading a significant clean energy transition.

Duke Energy's subsidiary, eTransEnergy, has been designated by GM as a preferred provider to assist fleet and BrightDrop customers in transitioning to electric vehicles via GM's Ultium Charge 360 service. Launched in February 2021, eTransEnergy supports logistics and delivery companies, educational institutions, and transit agencies in achieving sustainable transport goals. The service offers comprehensive infrastructure planning, smart charging, and on-site solar energy options. This partnership aims to enhance EV adoption, reduce carbon emissions, and improve overall fleet efficiency.

Duke Energy is allocating $734,000 towards workforce development programs in Florida. The funding aims to support underrepresented groups in the energy sector, enhancing the state's skilled workforce. Notably, the University of Florida will receive $100,000 for an Energy Sustainability program. Other recipients include local educational institutions and organizations, focusing on initiatives to prepare job seekers with essential skills. The Duke Energy Foundation prioritizes the creation of diverse job opportunities to strengthen communities and economies.

Duke Energy will announce its second-quarter 2021 financial results on August 5, 2021, at 7 a.m. ET. The announcement will be available on their investors' website. An earnings conference call is scheduled from 10 to 11 a.m. ET, led by CEO Lynn Good and CFO Steve Young. A replay of the call will be available until 1 p.m. ET on August 15, 2021. Duke Energy serves 7.9 million customers and is investing in renewable energy and grid upgrades.

Duke Energy has announced a quarterly cash dividend of $0.985 per share, reflecting a $0.02 increase. This dividend is set to be paid on Sept. 16, 2021 to shareholders recorded by Aug. 13, 2021. In addition, a quarterly cash dividend of $359.375 on Series A preferred stock and a semi-annual cash dividend of $24.375 on Series B preferred stock have also been declared, both payable on the same date. Duke Energy has maintained cash dividends on its common stock for an impressive 95 consecutive years.