COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs (SCDCA) intervened to represent the interests of consumers in the first electric Rate Stabilization Adjustment (eRSA) case before the Public Service Commission (PSC). Duke Energy Progress leveraged the new mechanism to request a rate increase of $10.20 per month for the average residential customer. If approved, new rates would take effect August 1, 2026. The increase would be in addition to the $11.23 average monthly increase residential customers began paying in February 2026 following the company’s most recent rate case.

In the 2025 general rate case, Duke Energy Progress requested a $21.66 monthly increase for the typical residential customer. The settlement reached by SCDCA and other interested parties in that case reduced the monthly impact to $11.23. SCDCA estimates its involvement resulted in residential customer savings of approximately $16.53 million compared to the company’s initial request.

The eRSA differs from a general rate case and is a statutory process created by the 2025 Energy Security Act. Unlike traditional electric rate cases—which involve a broad range of issues and expert testimony and typically occur every few years—the eRSA is a more frequent, streamlined mechanism. Under the eRSA, the PSC may adjust rates each year based on utility financial reports and comments submitted by intervening parties. 

Duke Energy Progress serves 13 counties in the Midlands, Pee Dee and Grand Strand areas. Customers have two opportunities to participate in the case: file a Letter of Protest or submit a Petition to Intervene via email to contact@psc.sc.gov by May 15, 2026. For more information on how to participate, click here to see the PSC’s Notice of Filing. For the company's request, click here. To view the PSC Docket, click here. 

SCDCA has the duty to educate consumers on what is happening at the PSC and other agencies taking actions that may affect them. To learn more about the Department's utility intervention role, view this newly created Spotlight.

About SCDCA

Established in 1974, DCA has more than fifty years of experience in protecting South Carolina consumers while recognizing those businesses that act honestly and fairly. Cultivating a marketplace comprised of well-informed consumers and businesses prevents deceptive and unfair business practices, allows legitimate business activity to flourish, resulting in the promotion of competition and a healthier economy.

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