The Kernersville Board of Aldermen voted unanimously this week to adopt a resolution opposing a proposed rate increase by Duke Energy Carolinas, citing concerns about the financial burden on residents and businesses.
Alderman Sarah Sabanis brought forward the resolution ahead of a June 3 public hearing and a looming deadline to submit concerns to the North Carolina Utilities Commission.
Town Manager Curtis Swisher pointed to Duke Energy’s financial position as a key component, particularly the company’s roughly $5 billion in net income last year.
“They’re asking for the rate increase to do improvements to their facilities and yet leave their net income where it is currently at so they can continue to pay out to the stockholders,” he said.
Alderman Bill Apple emphasized the widespread impact of a rate increase, particularly on residential customers.
“It seems to me that every citizen in Kernersville is impacted by this,” he said.
The resolution acknowledges the effects on both residential and commercial customers, but officials noted that households would feel the brunt of the hardship.
Town staff indicated the resolution will be submitted to the commission in advance of the public comment deadline, adding Kernersville’s voice to a growing list of municipalities weighing in on the proposal.
Copyright 2026 Informed Media Group LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without express written consent.
scopenewsonline.com 