Duke Energy announced on September 24 that it has been selected to receive a $50 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The money comes from the DOE’s Speed to Power through Accelerated Reconductoring and other Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades (SPARK) program and will be used to upgrade the electric grid in fast‑growing parts of the Carolinas.
Targeted upgrades for South Carolina families
The utility plans to focus the first phase of the project on high‑growth areas in South Carolina, specifically Greenville County and Spartanburg County. By reinforcing transmission lines and deploying advanced grid‑enhancing technologies, Duke Energy aims to deliver more reliable power to households and businesses while keeping rates affordable.
“Strengthening the grid requires targeted investments that improve reliability and help ensure our system is ready to meet customers’ evolving energy needs in a cost‑effective manner,” said Scott Batson, executive vice president and chief power grid officer for Duke Energy.
North Carolina counties also in line for improvements
In addition to the South Carolina work, the grant will fund transmission upgrades in Henderson County and Polk County, North Carolina. These improvements are expected to increase the capacity of existing lines, allowing the utility to move more electricity where it’s needed most.
Federal funding eases the cost burden on ratepayers
The $50 million award will offset a portion of the projected costs for the advanced transmission upgrades. By covering part of the expense, the grant reduces the amount that Duke Energy customers would otherwise have to pay, helping families keep more of their hard‑earned money.
While the funding is a federal initiative, the benefits will be felt locally—more reliable service, fewer outages, and a stronger foundation for future growth in the region’s expanding communities.
What this means for the community
Reliable electricity is a cornerstone of safe neighborhoods, thriving businesses, and strong families. By modernizing the grid, Duke Energy is supporting the everyday needs of South Carolina residents, from keeping lights on during storms to ensuring schools and hospitals have uninterrupted power.
For more details about the project and its timeline, visit Duke Energy’s website.
Original reporting: Greenville Journal — read the source article.
