Duke Energy faces consumer pushback over proposed rate hikes and data‑center costs

Consumer advocates have challenged Duke Energy’s request to raise residential electricity rates, first by 18%, then 11%, and most recently 9.5%. The group argues that Duke’s own analysis overstates the need for new generation and transmission, especially for data centers and other large energy users, and is taking the case to the state Utilities Commission to seek a lower rate.

In a separate civil‑rights case in Charlotte, North Carolina, the towing firm A1 Towing was found to have illegally towed vehicles, charged excessive fees, applied a second boot to already‑booted cars, and targeted customers racially. A court order now requires the company to change its practices, repay tens of thousands of dollars to affected customers, and face a $100,000 penalty if it fails to comply.