Winter Energy Demand Hits Record High in the Carolinas

For the second time this year, Duke Energy customers in the Carolinas set an all-time winter record for power use.

The utility generated 16,968 megawatts of electricity for the hour ending at 8 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, 2009.

The previous winter peak of 16,923 megawatts was set on Jan. 21, 2009.

“It’s clear Mother Nature is packing a punch this season, and there is more winter to come,” said Brett Carter, president, Duke Energy Carolinas.

“Since heating our homes accounts for the largest energy use during the winter, residential customers will see the impact of this cold weather on their power bills. Customers can help manage the cost now by adjusting their thermostat just a few degrees,” he said.