📍 North Carolina Energy Guide

Gas & Electricity Rates in North Carolina

North Carolina is dominated by Duke Energy, one of the largest electric utilities in the US. Duke Energy Carolinas and Duke Energy Progress together serve over 5 million customers. The state has ambitious clean energy legislation targeting 70% carbon emission reduction by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050.

15.09¢/kWh
Avg. Electric Rate
$1.58/therm
Avg. Gas Rate
$130
Monthly Electric Bill
$72
Monthly Gas Bill

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Electricity Rate
15.09¢/kWh
per kilowatt-hour
🔥
Natural Gas Rate
$1.58/therm
per therm
🧾
Avg Electric Bill
$130
per month
💰
Avg Gas Bill
$72
per month

Understanding Energy in North Carolina

North Carolina is dominated by Duke Energy, one of the largest electric utilities in the US. Duke Energy Carolinas and Duke Energy Progress together serve over 5 million customers. The state has ambitious clean energy legislation targeting 70% carbon emission reduction by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050.

North Carolina has a regulated electricity market. Your utility is the only electricity provider in your area, but rates are reviewed and approved by the state's public utility commission to ensure they are fair and reasonable.

The state's primary electric utilities include Duke Energy Carolinas, Duke Energy Progress, Dominion Energy North Carolina, ElectriCities NC. Natural gas distribution is handled by Piedmont Natural Gas (Duke Energy), Dominion Energy NC Gas, Atmos Energy NC. North Carolina's climate — humid subtropical, cold mountains — is one of the main drivers of annual energy consumption patterns for households.

🏛️ Regulated Electricity Market

North Carolina has a regulated electricity market. Your utility is the only electricity provider in your area, but rates are reviewed and approved by the state's public utility commission to ensure they are fair and reasonable.

Electric Utilities in North Carolina

The following utilities operate in North Carolina. Your specific provider depends on your address.

  • Duke Energy Carolinas
  • Duke Energy Progress
  • Dominion Energy North Carolina
  • ElectriCities NC

Natural Gas Utilities in North Carolina

  • Piedmont Natural Gas (Duke Energy)
  • Dominion Energy NC Gas
  • Atmos Energy NC

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Energy Assistance Programs in North Carolina

Low-income households and those facing energy emergencies may qualify for these programs:

  • NC LIHEAP
  • Crisis Intervention Program (CIP)
  • Duke Energy Share the Warmth
  • NC Home Energy Improvement Program (HEIP)
ℹ️ To apply for LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) in North Carolina, contact your local community action agency or visit the state's Department of Health & Human Services website.

Energy Saving Tips for North Carolina Residents

These tips are tailored to North Carolina's climate — humid subtropical, cold mountains:

  • Set your AC to 78°F when home and 85°F when away to reduce cooling costs.
  • Use ceiling fans to feel 4°F cooler without lowering the thermostat.
  • Plant shade trees on the west and south sides of your home to block afternoon sun.
  • Have your HVAC system serviced every spring before the cooling season begins.
  • Seal duct leaks — up to 30% of cooled air can escape in a leaky duct system.
  • Install a smart thermostat for automated temperature management.
  • Use blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day (2-5 PM) to block heat gain.

Gas & Electricity Rates by City in North Carolina

Select a city to view local utility rates, providers, and energy programs.

All Cities & Towns in North Carolina

Gas and electricity information for all 623 cities and towns in North Carolina. Jump to a letter or browse the full list.

Frequently Asked Questions — North Carolina Energy

  • The average residential electricity rate in North Carolina is approximately 15.09¢/kWh, compared to the national average of around 16¢/kWh. The average monthly electricity bill is $130.
  • The average residential natural gas rate in North Carolina is approximately $1.58/therm per therm. The typical monthly gas bill is $72, though this varies significantly by season.
  • The primary electric utilities serving North Carolina include Duke Energy Carolinas, Duke Energy Progress, Dominion Energy North Carolina. The right utility for you depends on your specific address.
  • No — North Carolina has a regulated electricity market, meaning your utility is determined by your location.
  • North Carolina residents may qualify for several assistance programs including NC LIHEAP, Crisis Intervention Program (CIP). Contact your utility or the state energy office for eligibility details.
  • To reduce your energy bills in North Carolina: schedule a free energy audit through your utility, check for state weatherization assistance, upgrade to LED lighting, and optimize your thermostat settings. Ask your utility about budget billing to smooth out seasonal costs.
⚖️ Energy rates in North Carolina are regulated by the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC). Residents can file complaints or inquire about rates and billing by contacting the commission directly.