NC Dominion Energy customers could see rate hike

MOYOCK, N.C. (WAVY) — In North Carolina, Dominion Energy has filed for a rate hike with the North Carolina Utilities Commission that could result in an average $17 increase a month for residential customers.

“I think it’s horrible — it’s high enough,” said North Carolina resident Gina Connor. “Our Dominion Energy bills are high enough. And raising it right now, when the economy is already going through more increases. I just think they need to keep it safe. How about lowering it?”

Dominion Energy said the proposal reflects the rising cost of critical grid equipment such as utility poles, transformers, wires and cables, and that inflation has increased the cost of generating and delivering electricity.

“I think it’s ridiculous,” said Bill Morse, who lives in North Carolina. “They already overcharge for electricity with all the fees and the extras that they put on the bills. It’s like a never-ending grab.”

Dominion said it did not make the proposal lightly, “and we understand household budgets are feeling the impact of inflation.” It said it was trying to keep costs as low as possible while expanding programs to help customers manage their bills.

“Everything is going up, so your energy costs are going up, your food costs, your fuel costs, everything,” one woman said. “You know, it just snowballs. So yeah, it’s tough. And I don’t see any end in sight. I don’t see it getting better.”

The Commission will review the proposal and host public hearings for the community to voice their opinions.

Connor says lower the bills.

“Leave the prices alone,” Connor said. “Do what you can to decrease the prices and not increase the prices.”

Morse hopes prices will come down.

“It’s continuously increasing,” Morse said. “So there’s never going to be a pullback. They’re never going to reduce it. Once they get it you know they’re going to find a way to keep it.”

Dominion Energy points out that their current residential rate is 25% below the national average. The new rate would go into effect Dec. 1.