Duke Energy Rate Deal Under Fire | Virginia Beach News

North Carolina’s Attorney General Jeff Jackson is refusing to approve Duke Energy’s revised rate hike—now at 6.8%—calling it still too steep for families and more than the company needs. After months of public backlash over soaring bills amid record heat, Duke has made concessions including faster rules for big energy users like data centers and a $10 million fund to help customers and boost home efficiency. Jackson also demands Duke make its federal Ratepayer Protection Pledge legally binding, pushing for a separate rate class for large consumers so they pay their own costs. The final decision rests with the Utilities Commission, with rates possibly taking effect as early as January 2027. Critics argue rising bills aren’t tied to increased usage but to Duke’s investments in fracked-gas plants, while Duke suggests simple fixes like AC maintenance can lower bills. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ae49046424457399