Public Feels NC is Taking Wrong Road to its Energy Future

As the N.C. Utilities Commission takes Duke Energy's long-term plan to the public for its reaction in a series of hearings this month, the majority of North Carolinians feel that Duke's 20 year plan, known as the IRP, relies too heavily on rate hikes and isn't focusing enough on the use of cleaner, cheaper and more efficient energy.

Of particular concern is the role of the Utilities Commission, where the public feels it is not doing enough to protect the interests of low-income residents and fixed -income seniors. Consumers Against Rate Hikes released a poll today that reflects those concerns.

When asked who the North Carolina Utilities Commission should most try to help in setting rates, 67% of survey respondents said low-income people and seniors on fixed incomes, 11% said small business, 5% said local government and schools, and 2% said large businesses and industries.

“What we are seeing in practice is that regulators are doing the exact opposite of what North Carolinians are calling for. They are taking money from residential consumers and giving it to big business and company shareholders,” said Bill Gupton, Outreach Director for Consumers Against Rate Hikes.

To learn more about the survey findings click here CARH Poll Results PR Final