Summer heat is rising, and so can energy bills. Duke Energy understands that many customers are facing financial challenges. That’s why Duke Energy is proactively reaching out to ensure customers are aware of the various assistance programs and flexible payment solutions available to help manage their energy expenses. If you are looking for Duke Power Customer Service options to ease the burden of energy bills, you’ve come to the right place.
Navigating Duke Power Customer Service for Assistance Programs
Duke Energy is committed to connecting customers with the resources they need. They are actively informing customers about assistance programs designed to support those facing economic hardship. Here’s how Duke Power customer service can guide you through available programs:
Emergency Rental Assistance Program/SC Stay Plus
The Emergency Rental Assistance Program, known as SC Stay Plus in South Carolina, offers vital support to renters. This program can cover up to 12 months of past-due rent and utility bills, dating back to March 13, 2020. If you are eligible, this program can provide significant relief.
For complete details on the SC Stay Plus program and to access the online application, please visit schousing.com/Home/SC-Stay-Plus. You can also call Duke Power customer service or the SC Stay Plus program directly at 800.467.0412 to begin your application process. Remember, the deadline to apply for these funds is September 30, 2021.
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program designed to assist households with low incomes in managing their energy costs. Eligibility is based on income thresholds, household size, and other factors. If you meet the criteria, LIHEAP can provide crucial financial assistance with your energy bills.
To learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply for LIHEAP funds, please visit oeo.sc.gov/liheap.html. Duke Power customer service representatives can also offer general guidance, though applications are handled through the LIHEAP program directly.
Assistance Agency Funds
Beyond these specific programs, numerous government and non-profit agencies offer utility bill assistance and support for other household expenses. Duke Power customer service encourages customers to explore these additional resources.
A valuable tool for finding local agencies in your area is the 211 service. Simply dial 211 or visit sc211.org online. This free service connects you with community agencies that provide aid for various needs, including energy bill assistance. Utilizing 211 or sc211.org can be an efficient way to discover local support options available through Duke Power customer service partnerships and community programs.
Duke Power Customer Service Solutions: Flexible Payment Plans
Understanding the diverse financial situations of their customers, Duke Power customer service offers a range of flexible payment options to help manage bills more effectively:
Budget Billing/Equal Payment Plan
Duke Energy’s Budget Billing, also known as the Equal Payment Plan, provides predictability in your monthly energy bills. Instead of fluctuating bills, you pay a consistent amount each month. This amount is calculated based on your annual energy costs, divided into 12 equal payments. The amount is periodically reviewed and adjusted to reflect actual energy usage.
To learn more and enroll in Budget Billing, visit: www.duke-energy.com/home/billing/budget-billing. This is a popular Duke Power customer service offering for stable budgeting.
Pick Your Due Date
For even greater control over your finances, Duke Energy’s Pick Your Due Date program allows you to choose your bill due date each month. This flexibility can be especially helpful in aligning your bill payments with your pay cycle and managing your monthly cash flow.
Combining Pick Your Due Date with Budget Billing can empower you with significant control over your energy expenses. Discover more about this option at: www.duke-energy.com/home/billing/pick-your-due-date. Duke Power customer service is ready to assist you in setting this up.
Installment Plans
If you have fallen behind on payments, Duke Power customer service can work with you to establish installment plans. These plans provide more time and flexibility to pay off a past-due balance. Whether you need a few extra days or a restructured monthly payment plan, Duke Energy encourages you to reach out and discuss your options.
Contact Duke Energy directly to explore installment plan options:
- Duke Energy Carolinas: 800.777.9898
- Duke Energy Progress: 800.452.2777
Proactive Energy Management with Duke Power Customer Service Tools
Beyond financial assistance and payment plans, Duke Power customer service also provides tools to help you actively manage your energy consumption and potentially lower your bills:
Smart Meters and Usage Alerts
Duke Energy’s smart meters offer valuable insights into your energy usage. These meters provide daily and even hourly usage information, helping you understand when and how you use the most energy. This data empowers you to make informed adjustments to conserve energy and save money. You can learn more about smart meters in this video: here.
Furthermore, if you have a smart meter, Duke Power customer service automatically sends usage alerts via email or text. These alerts are sent midway through your billing cycle, providing your current usage and a projection of your final monthly bill – well before the bill arrives.
Budget Alerts
Take proactive control of your spending with budget alerts. You can set a specific dollar amount, and Duke Power customer service will notify you when your bill reaches that threshold. This allows you to make timely adjustments to your energy consumption and prevent unexpectedly high bills.
Energy Saving Tips and Programs
For more ways to manage your energy bills, Duke Energy offers a wealth of energy-saving programs, tips, and guidance. Visit Duke-Energy.com/Summer to discover practical strategies for reducing your energy usage, especially during peak summer months. Duke Power customer service also provides personalized advice through their website and phone support.
Duke Energy is dedicated to providing comprehensive Duke Power customer service to help customers manage their energy needs. From financial assistance programs to flexible payment options and proactive energy management tools, Duke Energy is here to support you. Visit duke-energy.com or call the appropriate customer service line to learn more and get the help you need.
About Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is a leading energy company in the Fortune 150. Serving 7.9 million electric customers across six states and 1.6 million natural gas customers in five states, Duke Energy is committed to a clean energy future. With a goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, Duke Energy is investing in renewable energy, grid modernization, and innovative energy technologies. Learn more at duke-energy.com.
