Florence, South Carolina, September 25, 2025
News Summary
Duke Energy has proposed a rate increase exceeding 15% for various customer classes in South Carolina, targeting enhancements in the electrical grid and storm readiness. Public hearings are set for community feedback. While aimed at accommodating a growing customer base, concerns arise about the impact on residential customers compared to industrial needs.
Florence, South Carolina – Duke Energy has launched a proposal to the South Carolina Public Service Commission seeking approval for a rate increase that exceeds 15% for various customer classes, including residential and small business sectors. This significant hike aims to address the needs of a growing customer base while enhancing the electrical grid and improving storm readiness.
The proposed rate increases are structured as follows:
- 15.1% for residential customers
- 15.1% for small businesses
- 12.8% for medium service class (which encompasses larger businesses such as Walmart)
- 3.6% for the large general service class (including industries like AI data centers)
- 15.1% for outdoor lighting class
The first public hearing on this proposal is scheduled for Thursday, September 25, at 6 p.m. in Florence County, South Carolina. Subsequent hearings will occur on September 29 at the Sumter High School Auditorium, October 2 at Lee County Courthouse, and October 27 at the Public Service Commission Hearing, offering both in-person and virtual participation options.
Duke Energy asserts that the rate increase is crucial for strengthening the electrical grid, enhancing storm preparedness, and accommodating a growing customer base. The company’s president for South Carolina underlined that the decision to raise rates was not made lightly, reflecting a commitment to providing reliable service and maintaining infrastructure.
However, the proposed increases have sparked criticism from consumer advocates. Notably, an AARP representative expressed concerns that the rate hike appears primarily focused on serving industrial needs, particularly data centers, rather than prioritizing residential customers. The representative noted that data centers account for roughly 65% of new capacity requirements in South Carolina and suggested that residential consumers should not carry the financial burden for expanding industrial infrastructure.
Duke Energy aims for transparency in its operations and claims its decisions are made with customers’ best interests in mind. The utility also states that it anticipates achieving operational savings through the potential combination of its two electric utilities operating in North and South Carolina. This consolidation is predicted to generate over $1 billion in savings for customers by the year 2038 while ensuring regulation remains under state and federal oversight.
In summary, while Duke Energy’s proposed rate increases could enhance grid reliability and service efficiency, they raise questions about the balance between meeting industrial demands and protecting residents from increased financial burdens. Public hearings will allow community members to voice their opinions as the South Carolina Public Service Commission considers the proposal.
FAQ Section
What is the proposed rate increase from Duke Energy for South Carolina customers?
Duke Energy is proposing rate increases of over 15% for residential and small business customers, 12.8% for medium service users, 3.6% for large general services, and 15.1% for outdoor lighting classes.
When are the public hearings regarding the proposed rate increases?
The first public hearing will take place on September 25, followed by additional hearings on September 29, October 2, and October 27.
Why is Duke Energy seeking these rate increases?
The rate increases are intended to strengthen the electrical grid, improve storm readiness, address operational savings, and accommodate the growth of its customer base, including industrial sectors like data centers.
Key Features of Duke Energy’s Rate Increase Proposal
| Customer Class | Proposed Rate Increase |
|---|---|
| Residential Customers | 15.1% |
| Small Businesses | 15.1% |
| Medium Service Class (e.g., Walmart) | 12.8% |
| Large General Service Class (e.g., AI Data Centers) | 3.6% |
| Outdoor Lighting Class | 15.1% |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Duke Energy to Sell Piedmont Natural Gas Tennessee Operations
Florence County Invests $10,000 in Collective Initiative
Integer Technologies Boosts South Carolina’s Economy
AESC Confirms Ongoing Construction of Bowling Green Battery Plant
Florence County Hosts Hurricane Preparedness Event
Duke Energy Proposes Electricity Rate Increase in South Carolina
South Carolina Housing Market Faces Price Reductions
Duke Energy Appoints New President for South Carolina Operations
Severe Thunderstorms Cause Damage in Dillon County
Additional Resources
- Spectrum Local News: Duke Energy Rate Hike
- Duke Energy News: Projected Savings from Merger
- Utility Dive: Duke Energy Merge Carolina Utilities
- Wikipedia: Electricity in the United States
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Electric Power
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
