Area of Concern: Energy Insecurity. North Carolina's electricity bills have risen sharply; the state faces growing electricity demand while relying on a mix of fossil fuels, nuclear, and a growing share of clean energy. Estimated average of monthly residential electrical bill by county, January to July 2026, shown on a map of North Carolina, with natural gas and solar context. Charts: natural gas cost risks, solar energy production, average energy burden by county, increasing energy use, rising costs, Duke Energy cost comparison, and end-use consumption by sector. Solutions: diversify energy supply, boost energy efficiency, and modernize the grid to meet growing demand.
Area of Concern: Energy Insecurity. North Carolina's electricity bills have risen sharply amid growing demand and a shifting energy mix. Estimated average of monthly residential electrical bill by county, January to July 2026, on a map of North Carolina, with natural gas cost risks and solar energy production. Average energy burden by county, rising costs, and Duke Energy comparison of energy costs. Increasing energy use, electricity use by end-use sector, and end-use consumption by sector. Solutions: diversify energy supply, boost energy efficiency, and modernize the grid.