Duke Energy customers demand audit after receiving high energy bills

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – More than 57,000 Duke Energy customers have signed a petition asking for an independent audit for high energy bills. Charles and Sevehn Robinson live in Charlotte and were shocked to get their latest Duke Energy bill.

“Were going from paying 100 a month to 300 a month without any explanation,” Charles Robinson said.

They aren’t alone, thousands of people had sticker shock at recent Duke Energy bills after a stretch of winter weather in late January and early February.

“We both work so when we come home the lights are on for maybe an hour or two then were back sleep to get ready for the next day,” Sevehn Robinson said.

The numbers aren’t making sense to more than 57,000 people who have signed this change.org petition. They’re asking for an independent audit of high duke bills and asking the company to refund customers for discrepancies. Duke Energy officials say the weather impacted bills.

“We understand that that usage is higher and therefore that’s showing up in higher amounts on their bill,” Caroline Ferguson, Duke Energy Spokesperson said.

Duke Energy says there are options for people who are struggling to pay.

“They can extend their due date. They can sign up for installment plans. We also have energy efficiency programs, like the one I have right here for signing up for an in-home Energy Assessment, where you can see personalized recommendations on how you can be more energy efficient,” Ferguson said.

Duke Energy says there are agencies that can help pay high bills. The Robinson’s say passing the buck doesn’t address the root of the problem.

“You’re leaving families struggling right now with everything that’s going on in America not just Charlotte,” Charles Robinson said. “Then you triple a bill and soon they’ll be sending out letters that say hey you pay it or you’re getting cut off.”