Duke Energy Customers Outraged by New Deposit Fees on Electric Bills

New Deposit Fees on Duke Energy Bills

• 💡 Duke Energy customers are reporting unexpected and unaffordable deposit fees appearing on their electric bills.
• 🎯 For some, these new deposits are nearly three times the amount of their usual monthly bill, causing significant financial strain, especially around the holidays.
• 📌 One customer, Tasha Helms, who has lived in her apartment for 11 years and paid a deposit previously, was shocked to find a new deposit requirement of $295 on top of her $104 bill.

Duke Energy's Explanation and Policy

• 💬 A Duke Energy spokesperson stated that customers with existing deposits undergo an annual review to ensure the deposit is twice their average monthly bill.
• ⚠️ If the existing deposit is less than this required amount, the difference is billed to the customer.
• 💰 This additional amount can be credited back after nine months of good payment history.

Customer Impact and Assistance

• 😟 Customers expressed outrage on social media, with deposits ranging from $170 to $350, adding to existing financial challenges.
• 🤝 Duke Energy acknowledges potential customer financial difficulties and encourages them to utilize assistance programs and flexible payment plans.

Legal Standing and Local Response

• ⚖️ Attorney Charles Gallagher confirmed that while the timing is questionable, Duke Energy is likely within its rights to implement these deposit requirements for account security.
• 🏛️ Cities like Clearwater and St. Petersburg are considering ending their partnerships with Duke Energy or exploring options to encourage more responsive and accommodating practices from the company.
• ⚠️ Scammers are reportedly calling customers, falsely claiming they owe immediate deposits over the phone; Duke Energy states these official deposits will appear on the bill itself and likely be accompanied by a letter.