Duke Energy Propels North Carolina to Solar Stardom

Sunshine State Shines Brighter: North Carolina Secures No. 2 Spot in Solar Production

The federal government has officially confirmed North Carolina’s ascent to the second position in solar energy production nationwide. This remarkable achievement stems largely from Duke Energy’s banner year. Essentially in connecting both utility-scale and rooftop solar installations.

Duke Energy: Powering the Solar Revolution

Impressive Growth Outpaces Competitors

In 2018, North Carolina witnessed a staggering 36% jump in annual solar energy production. Consequently, this surge significantly outpaced other leading solar states. That’s with California, Arizona, and also Nevada experiencing more modest growth rates. Meaning growth rates of 15%, 10%, and 10%, respectively.

Illuminating Statistics

By the end of 2018, North Carolina had produced an impressive 7.2 million megawatt-hours of solar generation. This output, therefore, provides enough clean energy to power over 600,000 homes, showcasing the state’s commitment to renewable energy.

Customer-Centric Programs Fuel Renewable Energy Expansion

Solar Rebates Spark Widespread Adoption

Duke Energy’s innovative $62 million solar rebate program has ignited enthusiasm among residential, commercial, and nonprofit customers. As a result, this initiative has empowered 3,000 customers to embrace solar energy in just two years. Furthermore, Duke Energy plans to continue offering these rebates for the next three years, thus ensuring sustained growth in solar adoption.

Competitive Bidding Process Drives Innovation

In a move to further accelerate solar capacity, Duke Energy launched a competitive bidding process in 2018. This initiative aims to add 680 MW of new solar capacity in 2019, which is enough to power approximately 125,000 homes at peak output. Consequently, this approach ensures that the most cost-effective and efficient projects are prioritized, benefiting customers across the Carolinas.

Duke Energy’s Multifaceted Approach to Clean Energy

Investing in a Greener Future

Duke Energy has demonstrated its commitment to renewable energy by investing more than $1 billion in North Carolina alone. The company owns and operates over 35 solar facilities in the state, thereby solidifying its position as a leader in the clean energy transition.

Innovative Leasing and Tariff Programs

To cater to diverse customer needs, Duke Energy has introduced solar leasing options for commercial customers in both North and South Carolina. Additionally, the company’s Green Source Advantage program provides industrial customers with the flexibility to negotiate directly with solar developers, thus facilitating the addition of more renewable energy to the grid without impacting other customer classes.

• A Cleaner Energy Mix for the Carolinas

Phasing Out Coal, Embracing Renewables

Since 2011, Duke Energy has shut down 30 coal-fired power plants in the Carolinas, with plans to retire five more units in the next six years. Consequently, this shift has led to a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, with projections indicating a 53% decrease in the Carolinas by 2025 compared to 2005 levels.

Diversifying Energy Sources

Currently, more than half of the energy produced by Duke Energy in the Carolinas comes from carbon-free resources, including nuclear, hydropower, and solar. Moreover, the company is investing $500 million in battery storage projects over the next decade, further enhancing the reliability and efficiency of renewable energy sources.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for North Carolina’s Energy Landscape

Duke Energy’s multifaceted approach to promoting solar energy has not only secured North Carolina’s position as the second-largest solar producer in the nation but also paved the way for a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. Through continued investment, innovative customer programs, and a commitment to phasing out fossil fuels, Duke Energy is transforming the energy landscape of the Carolinas, thus setting a shining example for the rest of the nation to follow.