Duke Energy received approval from the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) for its Carolinas Resource Plan, a roadmap designed to meet rising energy demands in North and South Carolina with a diverse energy mix. Filed in August 2023, this plan responds to increased projected customer demand and was finalized with input from multiple stakeholders, including Walmart and the Carolinas Clean Energy Business Association. The NCUC’s decision endorses Duke Energy’s plan to expand its renewable capacity by 3,460 MW of solar, 1,100 MW of battery storage, and 1,200 MW of onshore wind by 2031. Approved projects also include 900 MW of combustion turbines, expanded nuclear development, and an offshore wind evaluation for potential use by 2035. This decision emphasizes affordability, grid reliability, and a commitment to carbon reduction, directing Duke Energy to retire coal facilities and pursue long-term investments to maintain competitive rates.
Duke Energy to expand solar storage under NCUC order
Duke Energy’s Carolinas Plan also includes 900 MW of combustion turbines by 2030, balancing grid reliability with renewable energy expansion. (Image Source: Duke Energy)
The Mockingbird Solar Center invests $500 million in renewable energy and creates 550 jobs in Texas. (Image Credit/Source: MarkStebnicki/Pexels)
The $529 million Vikings project supports grid stability by shifting daytime solar energy to meet peak demand periods. (Image Credit/Source: NadeemJafar/Pexels)
The dual-use project integrates agriculture under solar panels and floating aquaculture with energy storage. (Image Source: PRNewswire)
The Horsham project combines solar and battery storage, supporting grid stability and peak demand management. (Image Credit/Source: Atimedia/Pixabay)