Duke Energy Ohio Executive Vice President, Customer Experience, Harry K. Sideris | Duke Energy Ohio
Duke Energy Ohio Executive Vice President, Customer Experience, Harry K. Sideris | Duke Energy Ohio
Duke Energy is closely monitoring weather forecasts as a winter storm with snow and ice approaches, potentially causing power outages in certain regions. The company advises customers to be prepared for possible disruptions.
Jason Hollifield, Duke Energy's storm director in the Carolinas, stated, "As snowy and icy conditions approach, we’re encouraging customers to prepare and have a plan in place in case they experience a power outage." He assured that their crews are ready to work efficiently and safely to restore power if necessary.
The expected precipitation could lead to ice accumulation on trees and branches, increasing the risk of them falling on power lines. Ice buildup of a quarter inch or more can cause outages by damaging lines. Heavy snow could also contribute to such issues.
Duke Energy has been working on grid improvements throughout the year to reduce outages and restore power more quickly when they occur. These improvements include tree trimming around power lines, upgrading poles and lines, and installing smart technology that can reroute power during outages. In 2024 alone, self-healing technology helped avoid over 1.2 million customer outages in the Carolinas.
For those experiencing an outage during the storm, Duke Energy offers several reporting options: texting OUT to 57801 (standard charges apply), using the Duke Energy mobile app available on Apple Store or Google Play, visiting duke-energy.com/outages on any device, calling 800.POWERON (800.769.3766), or checking their interactive outage map online for updates.
Safety reminders include keeping phones charged and having supplies like flashlights and nonperishable food ready. Customers using generators should follow safety instructions carefully to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Duke Energy also provides tips for saving energy as temperatures drop. These include adjusting thermostats closer to outdoor temperatures, maintaining heating systems properly, using ceiling fans effectively during winter months, sealing drafts around windows and doors, switching bulbs to LEDs for efficiency, and setting water heaters at 120 degrees.
Duke Energy serves millions across several states with both electric utilities and natural gas services while pursuing an ambitious energy transition focused on reliability and cleaner energy sources.
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