Durham woman’s $800 Duke Energy bill shows the risk of budget billing
WRAL • • business
Key Points:
- Durham retiree Sophia Blake faced an $800+ Duke Energy bill and risked shutoff despite enrolling in the utility’s budget billing plan meant to smooth monthly payments, leading to confusion and financial stress.
- Investigation revealed Blake’s high balance resulted from missed payments, late fees, increased energy use, and rising rates—not a billing error; Duke Energy confirmed overdue amounts accumulated due to inconsistent payments and mismatched due dates.
- North Carolina electric bills have risen about 22% since 2020, largely due to higher rates and fuel costs rather than increased household usage, affecting many customers like Blake.
- Duke Energy extended Blake’s payment deadline and checked her meter, while 5 On Your Side helped clarify the billing issues and available assistance programs.
- Several resources exist for struggling customers, including federally funded Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP), Crisis Intervention Program (CIP), Duke Energy’s Customer Assistance Program, and free weatherization services, all designed to reduce bills and prevent shutoffs.
