WRAL News learned on Monday that the North Carolina Utilities Commission rescheduled a highly anticipated public hearing in Durham over potential energy rate hikes from Duke Energy.
The Utilities Commission announced the rescheduling in a docket amendment to the planned public hearing, saying there were "security concerns" for the meeting, which was originally planned for Tuesday at the Durham County Courthouse.
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However, the Durham County Sheriff's Office told WRAL News the postponement was due to "administrative and scheduling requirements that were not followed by the commission."
A spokesperson with the sheriff's office said the agnecy is "not currently investigating any security concerns or active threats related to this meeting."
Duke Energy Progress is seeking approval from state regulators for an 18% increase to residential electric rates over the next two years, which would mean a $34 increase per month for the average customer by 2028.
Duke Energy said the increase is necessary to pay for a growing and more resilient electric system as the state adds new residents and large energy users.
Since 2020, electric bills in North Carolina have risen about 22%, fueling growing frustration from local municipalities.
More than 82,000 people have signed a petition as of Monday asking for an independent audit of Duke Energy's billing practices, and refund to Duke Energy customers in the Carolinas.
The Utilities Commission said it would move the public hearing to June 3.