Critical
Public Radio East
North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson has accused Duke Energy of providing false testimony during hearings on its proposed rate increase. A Duke Energy executive testified that a settlement would limit residential rate hikes to 6.8%, but Jackson’s office calculated the increase at 9.3%. Jackson has refused to approve the settlement, citing the discrepancy as a significant issue.
Environmental groups have also criticized the proposal, claiming it unfairly shifts costs to residential customers while favoring commercial data centers. They are calling for reduced profit margins, increased investment in renewable energy, and a separate rate class for data centers. Duke Energy has defended the settlement as a necessary compromise, noting it already reduced its original rate request to address public concerns.
Why it matters: The allegations of false testimony and growing opposition could delay regulatory approvals, harm Duke Energy's reputation, and lead to stricter oversight in future rate cases. This dispute may also signal broader challenges for utilities balancing cost recovery with public and regulatory expectations.