Duke Energy Progress has filed a request with the Public Service Commission of South Carolina (PSCSC) for a base rate increase, seeking a $74.8 million overall revenue boost to support grid improvements, generation updates, and growing energy demands across its service area in central and northeastern South Carolina.
If approved, the proposed rate adjustment would increase residential customers’ bills by about $21.66 per month, raising the average bill for 1,000 kilowatt-hours from $144.85 to $166.51 beginning Feb. 1, 2026. Commercial customers would see an average increase of 12.8%, and industrial customers would see rates rise by approximately 3.6%, with exact figures varying based on class-specific usage and infrastructure needs.
This is the first base rate review request from Duke Energy Progress since 2022. The company says the proposed rate hike reflects substantial investments already made to modernize infrastructure, enhance storm response, and extend the life of generation assets like the Robinson Nuclear Plant.
“We know families and businesses are juggling a lot, and we do not take a request to increase rates lightly,” said Tim Pearson, president of Duke Energy South Carolina. “But being upfront and timely with our needs is the right thing to do and in the best interest of our customers.”
Duke Energy Progress serves approximately 177,000 customers in South Carolina and is a subsidiary of Duke Energy, one of the largest energy holding companies in the U.S. with operations spanning six states. The company has cited several driving factors for the proposed rate increase, including:
Investments in self-healing technology that helped restore more than 10,000 outages during recent storms and saved more than 28,000 hours of total outage time.
Efforts to harden infrastructure, improve storm resilience, and upgrade power generation systems.
A commitment to operational efficiency and discipline in rate adjustments, seeking to align costs with current system needs rather than defer expenses.
The rate case will now undergo a public and evidentiary review process conducted by the PSCSC. Public hearings will be held to allow customers to voice their opinions, and stakeholders will have the opportunity to submit written testimony and evidence. A decision from the commission is expected in early 2026.
Customers can review the full proposal and submit comments through the PSCSC website under docket number 2025-154-E. Duke Energy has also directed customers to explore available support programs such as energy efficiency tools, payment arrangements, and financial assistance through the company’s Share the Light Fund®.
For more information on the proposed rate changes and assistance options, visit duke-energy.com.
