Duke Energy recently announced a new rate hike that will affect customers in central and western North Carolina. Starting in January 2024, rates will go up by 8.3%, followed by a 3.3% increase in 2025, and a final 3% hike in 2026. This means the average customer will see their monthly bill rise by about $13 in 2024, with further increments in subsequent years.
So, you’re staring at your new electric bill, and it feels like Duke Energy just invited itself to a chunk of your paycheck party. No worries! We’ve compiled a list of all the ways you can make your budget work:
1) Add Another Side Hustle on Top of Your Job and Current Side Hustle Sleep is for the weak. Start a third side hustle! Whether it’s knitting cat sweaters at midnight or offering nocturnal birdwatching tours, there’s always a market for something. Who needs rest when you can have relentless productivity?
2) Move Retirement Back Another Ten Years Early retirement is overrated. Push your retirement age to 75, or even 80. You’ll stay active, engaged, and who doesn’t love the thrill of working into their golden years? Plus, you’ll have more time to contribute to your retirement fund.
3) Rent Out Your Closet as a Micro-Apartment Space is a luxury. Transform that spare closet into a tiny rental unit. Advertise it as a “cozy minimalist retreat” and rake in the cash from people eager to embrace the latest tiny living trend.
4) Stop Needing Food Who needs three meals a day anyway? Embrace the air diet. You’ll save a fortune on groceries and dining out. Plus, think of all the time you’ll save not cooking or eating!
Switch to Solar Consider investing in solar panels and a home battery system. On average, solar users in Duke coverage areas can save about $600 to $1,200 per year on electricity costs. Plus, you’ll be contributing to a cleaner environment. Get a quote to see how you can make the switch and finally break free from the cycle of rate hikes
