Many NC residents are shocked by higher energy bills this month. Here’s why
With two consecutive weeks of snow in North Carolina last month, many residents are now opening higher-than-usual energy bills.
“Has anyone paid their Duke Energy bills lately?” a Reddit user recently asked in the North Carolina subreddit. “Holy cow! $100 more than last year on each of two different properties.”
“I had a new high efficiency HVAC system with inverter heat pump installed in July 2025. I just got an electric bill for $290. This time last year with an 18-year-old HVAC system my bill was $190. Ridiculous,” another user commented.
Enbridge Gas told customers last month that January’s colder temperatures led to more natural gas use and higher bills, noting that rates did not change. Duke Energy similarly warned that the prolonged cold could raise costs and even issued a rare conservation plea during the cold snap to help stabilize the grid, The News & Observer reported at the time.
Dominion Energy also notes that extreme temperatures can drive up energy use, though there are ways customers can lower costs.
Here’s what you need to know.
How to save money on your NC utility bill
Here are some ways you can save money on your energy bill, Duke Energy says:
- Set your thermostat as low as comfortably possible when you’re home.
- Run ceiling fans clockwise to push warm air back down.
- Let sunlight in during the day and close blinds at night to keep heat inside.
- Change air filters regularly to keep your system running efficiently.
You can also use the Duke Energy app or sign into your account to monitor spikes in your energy use and adjust habits driving up your bill.
Can NC utility companies turn your power off during freezing weather?
Yes, but there are some protections in place during the colder months, The Charlotte Observer previously reported.
According to the N.C. Department of Justice, utilities can’t disconnect service between November and March if the household includes someone who:
- Is disabled or 65 years of age or older
- Are unable to pay their utility bills under an installment plan
- Are certified by a local social service agency as eligible to receive assistance under an energy assistance program
Utility companies must follow strict rules before shutting off power, including giving customers time to pay and providing at least 10 days’ written notice before disconnection, the NCDOJ says. Utilities also can’t disconnect service on Fridays, weekends or holidays, must account for households with special medical needs, and often offer third-party notification programs so another person can receive shutoff warnings.
What to do if your power goes out
If you lose power, never run generators, grills or camp stoves indoors, and leave your home immediately if you smell gas, the Observer previously reported. You should also keep fridge and freezer doors closed to preserve food, and use flashlights and a battery-powered radio to stay informed.
The National Weather Service recommends the following safety tips if you lose heat:
- Close off rooms that you aren’t using to avoid wasting heat.
- Stuff towels or rags in the cracks under doors.
- Close blinds or curtains on your windows to keep in some heat.
- Eat and drink. Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat. Drink lots of water and other non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic drinks to prevent dehydration. Cold air is very dry.
- Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Remove layers to avoid overheating, sweating and subsequent chill.
Portions of this story were previously published in The Charlotte Observer.
This story was originally published February 20, 2026 at 1:30 PM with the headline "Many NC residents are shocked by higher energy bills this month. Here’s why."
