North Carolina

Energy markets

Why states are threatening to leave PJM — and why they probably won’t

The grid operator’s high power prices and long interconnection queue have Democratic and Republican governors eyeing an exit, but analysts warn it could backfire.

By Kathryn Krawczyk . 26 September 2025
Energy efficiency

North Carolina funds repairs so Helene-hit homes can get energy upgrades

Hurricane Helene struck a year ago, leaving many houses too damaged to access free retrofits that cut families’ energy bills. The state aims to help.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 25 September 2025
Utilities

As data centers go up, North Carolina weighs how to handle energy demand

Duke wants to build gas plants, but clean energy advocates argue that solar, battery storage, and demand response could help alleviate growing strain on the grid.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 16 September 2025
Energy efficiency

North Carolina families see lower bills with new Duke Energy program

The utility refers low-income customers to groups like Energy Savers Network, which provides free efficiency retrofits for long-term savings.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 9 September 2025
Emissions reduction

North Carolina ditched its 2030 climate goal. Now what?

Rising power demand and the low cost of renewables may give wind and solar a fighting chance even though Duke Energy no longer has to cut emissions in the near term.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 26 August 2025
Utilities

North Carolina approves Duke Energy plan to let customers access their data

The new program, long in the making, has support from clean energy groups, but critics worry about fees and unattainable cybersecurity standards.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 1 August 2025
Clean energy jobs

Energy bill could cost North Carolina billions in lost investments and jobs

As lawmakers decide whether to override the governor’s veto of SB 266, new research estimates the massive economic toll of the legislation.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 25 July 2025
Clean energy

Rural North Carolina town forges ahead on clean energy, despite headwinds

Federal lawmakers are throwing a wrench in Enfield’s plans for solar, energy efficiency, and a resilience center. But local leaders refuse to give up.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 11 July 2025
Emissions reduction

N.C. governor vetoes bill that would have delayed clean energy goal

The bill would have eliminated a 2030 emissions-reduction target for Duke Energy — and caused the utility to build less generation, just as power demand is rising.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 2 July 2025
Utilities

N.C. bill gives big energy users a break — at the expense of households

The proposal is part of a swift-moving package that would also unravel the state’s climate targets. Duke Energy and industrial customers have voiced support.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 11 June 2025