Duke Energy Corp - DUK STOCK NEWS

Duke Energy is enhancing support for customers in Indiana facing rising energy costs. The company is connecting past-due customers with utility assistance programs, including LIHEAP, which provides federal aid based on income. Additionally, the Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance Program offers funds for overdue rent and utility bills. Duke Energy's options, like Budget Billing and installment plans, aim to help customers manage their payments. The company emphasizes tracking energy usage through smart meters to aid bill management.

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) has completed the first phase of a two-part sale transaction with GIC, gaining $1.025 billion from an 11.05% minority interest sale in Duke Energy Indiana. The total transaction, which is valued at $2.05 billion, will support Duke Energy's $59 billion capex plan through 2025. GIC will hold a 19.9% indirect interest in Duke Energy Indiana. This deal reflects GIC's confidence in Duke Energy's commitment to clean energy and infrastructure investment, as well as the operational value of its Indiana subsidiary.

Piedmont Natural Gas has secured an agreement with consumer groups in North Carolina regarding its rate increase request, originally filed in March 2021. If approved by the North Carolina Utilities Commission, the new rates will be implemented in November 2021, resulting in an average monthly increase of $5.50 for residential customers. The total increase is projected at $74 million, lower than the initial $97 million requested. This settlement includes a return on equity of 9.6% and underscores the company's commitment to a reliable pipeline network while addressing infrastructure and safety improvements.

Duke Energy Florida plans to reduce the impact of new rates effective January 2022 by approximately 33%, or up to $4.67 monthly for residential customers using 1,000 kWh. The strategy includes spreading $247 million of unrecovered fuel costs over two years and postponing recovery of storm-related costs. As a result, the average monthly bill will increase by $9.24. The company aims to support low-income customers through enhanced energy efficiency programs and financial assistance, addressing the economic hardships exacerbated by the pandemic.

Piedmont Natural Gas, serving North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, is aiding customers facing financial difficulties due to energy bill challenges. The company has implemented various assistance programs, including flexible payment plans, and is informing customers about federal energy assistance options such as LIHEAP and the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (HOPE 2.0). These initiatives help manage utility expenses and offer resources for energy-saving tips. Piedmont emphasizes community support and aims to assist over 1 million customers effectively.

The Duke Energy Foundation has awarded nearly $200,000 in grants to 10 South Carolina organizations to enhance workforce development in the energy sector. These grants aim to support military veterans, minority, and underserved communities, reflecting Duke Energy's commitment to building a diverse workforce. Over the past five years, the foundation has invested $1.6 million in similar initiatives. As South Carolina transitions to clean energy, Duke Energy continues to focus on training and job skills that align with community needs.

Duke Energy is addressing rising energy costs by connecting Florida customers with utility assistance programs amid summer heat. The company promotes several resources such as LIHEAP for low-income households, the Homeowner Assistance Fund for COVID-19 financial hardships, and various community assistance programs. Additionally, flexible payment options like Budget Billing and Installment Plans are available to help manage energy bills. Duke Energy is also dedicated to renewable energy goals, aiming for a 50% carbon reduction by 2030 and reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) issued a statement from CEO Lynn Good following participation in the White House Cybersecurity Summit on Aug. 25, 2021. The summit included key government officials and CEOs, focusing on cybersecurity threats and best practices. Duke Energy emphasized its commitment to protecting operations against cyber events, highlighting collaboration with government and industry leaders. The company is dedicated to ongoing discussions on cybersecurity and has set aggressive clean energy goals, aiming for a 50% carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050.

Duke Energy aims to assist North Carolina customers struggling with rising energy costs. With increasing summer temperatures, the company promotes various assistance programs, including LIHEAP for low-income households, the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, and the Homeowner Assistance Fund. The company also offers flexible payment options like Budget Billing and Pick Your Due Date to help manage bills. Duke Energy serves 7.9 million customers and has ambitious clean energy goals, aiming for a 50% carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050.