Duke Energy Corp - DUK STOCK NEWS

Duke Energy has filed an application with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to renew the operating licenses for its Oconee Nuclear Station for an additional 20 years. This renewal, if approved, will extend the licenses to 2053 and 2054. Oconee, Duke's largest nuclear facility, contributes over 2,500 megawatts of carbon-free electricity and plays a crucial role in the company's carbon reduction goals. The nuclear fleet prevented nearly 50 million tons of CO2 emissions in 2020, underscoring its importance for a cleaner energy mix.

Duke Energy, based in Charlotte, N.C., is offering customers low- to no-cost energy efficiency tips to help manage higher energy bills during the summer. With energy use expected to rise, the company suggests practical steps like changing air filters, adjusting thermostats, and using ceiling fans. Additionally, customers can utilize smart meters to track daily energy usage and receive alerts about their bills. Duke Energy aims for significant carbon reductions by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050, reinforcing its commitment to a sustainable energy future.

Duke Energy Foundation has awarded over $113,000 in grants to enhance broadband access in 15 Indiana counties. A grant of $100,000 will support the Purdue Center for Regional Development in creating "digital inclusion plans" for these areas. Additionally, a $13,000 grant will fund software for the Indiana Rural Broadband Strategic Partnership, promoting broadband speed testing to assess internet accessibility. This initiative is crucial for addressing the digital divide highlighted during the pandemic and aims to ensure Indiana remains competitive in an increasingly digital economy.

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions announces the construction of the 250 MW Pisgah Ridge Solar project in Navarro County, Texas, set to become their largest utility-scale solar facility. The project has attracted virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) from Charles River Laboratories for 102 MW, aiming for 100% renewable electricity by 2023. Expected to generate enough power for 63,000 homes, the facility will create 200-300 construction jobs and provide tax revenue for local schools. Duke plans to double its renewable portfolio to 16 GW by 2025.

Duke Energy urges customers to prepare for the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season, predicting 20 storms and 9 hurricanes. The company has invested in grid improvements to enhance reliability and resilience against severe weather. Self-healing technology prevented nearly 600,000 outages last year in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida. Additionally, Duke Energy's new 'Ping-it' technology allows for faster verification of service restoration. Customers are encouraged to create emergency plans and update contact information for outage alerts.

Duke Energy filed a $56 million proposal for Phase II programs to promote transportation electrification in North Carolina, following approval of a $25 million Phase I program by the N.C. Utilities Commission. The latest plans aim to install over 1,000 charging ports and support initiatives like expanding DC fast charging along highways and financial aid for electric school buses. The goal aligns with the state's target of 80,000 zero-emission vehicles by 2025, addressing barriers for low and moderate-income families and enhancing EV market development.

Duke Energy has commenced construction on the 22.6-MW Speedway Solar power plant in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, aiming for completion by the end of 2021. This facility will utilize 77,000 Jinko bifacial modules and is expected to power 5,000 homes. The project is part of North Carolina's competitive bidding for renewable energy and supports Duke's goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. During peak construction, around 70 workers will be employed, contributing to local economic growth.

AMPLY Power and Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions have teamed up to enhance bus fleet electrification with a new solar canopy and overhead electric vehicle charging solution. This innovative offering, supported by a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), aims to reduce costs and promote the use of renewable electricity for charging systems. AMPLY's unique Pantograph In-Depot Equipment (PIDE) Canopy Mount simplifies the transition to electric vehicles, enabling fleets to budget effectively and minimize energy costs. This collaboration includes a comprehensive infrastructure plan, designed to meet zero-emission targets and offer long-term financial predictability.

Malta Inc. and Duke Energy are collaborating to assess the benefits of transforming retiring coal units into long-duration, zero-emissions energy storage systems. Funded by a U.S. Department of Energy grant, the year-long study will evaluate Malta's 100-megawatt, 10-hour pumped heat energy storage system integrated into Duke Energy's coal plant in North Carolina. The project aims to support Duke's goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and will provide insights into job retention, local economic impacts, and environmental advantages, including increased integration of renewable energy.