Duke Energy of the Carolinas is urging customers to reduce energy usage due to extremely cold temperatures causing high demand. Overnight Sunday into Monday (2/1/26-2/2/26) temperatures are expected to dive down to 14 degrees in the Upstate. Customers are asked to voluntarily cut back on energy use specifically from 4-10 a.m. Monday to prevent power outages. Duke Energy is working to meet energy needs by maximizing generation and collaborating with large customers with demand response programs. Customers are thanked for their cooperation and understanding during this time. Duke Energy press release below:
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Extremely cold temperatures – 10 to 20 degrees below normal – are driving unusually high energy demand across the East Coast, including the Carolinas. Duke Energy is asking all Carolinas customers to voluntarily reduce their energy use from 4-10 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 2, to help lessen the energy demand on the grid and reduce the potential of temporary power outages.
Customers can help ease strain on the grid by taking the following steps:
Reduce your thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting.
Avoid using major appliances such as washing machines, clothes dryers and dishwashers between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m.
Turn off any unnecessary devices, unused plug-ins and lights.
Electric vehicle owners: Charge midday, when demand is lower.
“We know it’s inconvenient to reduce electric use, but it makes a real difference.” said Gerald Wilson, Duke Energy vice president of grid operations. “We are taking every step to meet our customers energy needs, including maximizing our generation and purchasing power and working with large commercial and industrial customers who have demand response programs. We appreciate our customers’ cooperation, patience and understanding as we work to maintain reliable service across the Carolinas.”