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North Carolina Electricity Information

North Carolina generates electricity from a mix of natural gas, nuclear, coal, and a growing share of renewables, especially solar. In fact, it’s a national leader in solar power, helping diversify its energy mix alongside steady nuclear generation. While coal use has declined, natural gas remains the dominant source of power.

With a growing population and a strong industrial sector, North Carolina has high electricity demand, but prices stay close to the national average. The shift from coal to cleaner sources has reduced emissions, though natural gas still contributes to greenhouse gases. As solar and battery storage expand, North Carolina continues moving toward a more sustainable energy future.

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Electricity Production

Primary Source

Natural Gas

Total Generation: 126,553,394 MWh
Ranks 9th Highest in the U.S.
Average Price: 13.33¢ /kWh
Ranks 18th Cheapest in the U.S.
Average Electric Bill: $123.15
Ranks 16th Cheapest in the U.S.

Electricity Production By Source

Emissions From Electricity Generation

Carbon Dioxide Emissions Rank

15th Highest

36,765 TMT

Sulfer Dioxide Emissions Rank

19th Highest

20,220 tn

Nitrogen Oxide Emissions Rank

7th Highest

39,890 tn

Renewable Electricity Generation

Renewable Production Rank

14th Highest

16,213,531 MWh
12.81% of Total Production

Source U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) Based on data from 2023

Energy Usage in North Carolina

Energy Usage Per Capita Rank

17th Lowest

Average Per Person: 240 million BTU

North Carolina’s electricity consumption is shaped by its Southeastern climate, where hot, humid summers drive heavy air conditioning use and mild to cool winters add seasonal heating demand. While many homes use natural gas or heat pumps for warmth, electricity use still rises during colder months. The state’s growing population and robust industrial sector also add to demand, making electricity consumption consistently high year-round. With these climate-driven peaks and a diverse economy, North Carolina depends on a reliable, balanced grid to meet the needs of both households and businesses.

Municipal Utilities in North Carolina

While most cities, towns, and villages throughout the state of North Carolina offer municipal essential services like providing clean water, sewage treatment and dealing with waste and storm water, some also offer other services like electricity, natural gas, sanitation or recycling. In North Carolina, 73 cities offer municipal electricity utility services to their residents.

Largest Electric Companies in North Carolina

The rest of North Carolina receives electric utility service from one of many primary providers. Here’s a list of some of the larger providers that might be available to your home:

North Carolina Natural Gas Information

Natural gas plays a key role in North Carolina’s energy system, both for electricity generation and for direct use in homes and businesses. Many households rely on natural gas for heating, cooking, and hot water. The state’s Southeastern climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters, shapes consumption patterns. Demand peaks in the winter months as gas is used for space heating, while summer demand also rises as natural gas-fired power plants help meet electricity needs during air conditioning season.

This balance of seasonal heating and cooling makes natural gas a year-round necessity in North Carolina. With a growing population and expanding economic activity, natural gas continues to provide a reliable, affordable source of energy while supporting the state’s transition toward a more diverse energy mix.

Average Natural Gas Price

$3.013 /CCF

Ranks 40th Cheapest in the U.S.

Average Natural Gas Bill

$119 /month

Ranks 39th Cheapest in the U.S.

Natural Gas Usage Per Capita

31st Lowest

Average Per Person: 71.37 MCFs Annually

Largest Natural Gas Companies in North Carolina

Many of the residents of North Carolina receive their natural gas utility service from one of the larger companies that service the state.

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North Carolina Internet Connectivity

Broadband Availability

86.9%

Ranks 22nd in the U.S.

Percent of Ppopulation with access to 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload

1 Gig Availability

36.26%

Ranks 22nd in the U.S.

Percent of population with access to download speeds of 1 Gbps

Fiber Availability

37.55%

Ranks 21st in the U.S.

Percent of population with access to Fiber Internet

Largest Internet Providers in North Carolina

When it comes to high-speed internet, homes in North Carolina have plenty of options to stay connected! From bustling cities to quiet rural areas, a variety of providers offer reliable service across the state. Here are some of the biggest names keeping North Carolina homes online and in the loop:

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Utility Costs in North Carolina

The average monthly total utility bills in North Carolina is $262.26, which is 5.37% lower than the national average.

Average Electric Bill

$123

Lower than national average

Average Natural Gas Bill

$119

Higher than national average

Average Water Bill

$20

Lower than national average

Assistance for Paying Utility Bills in North Carolina

If you are struggling to keep the lights on or heat your home, North Carolina offers several programs to help pay utility bills. Assistance is available through state-run initiatives as well as special programs designed specifically for seniors, students, and veterans.

Statewide Assistance Programs

Most residents’ primary source of help is through the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS). Two main programs are available depending on the urgency of your need:

Crisis Intervention Program (CIP): This is for households experiencing a heating or cooling crisis (e.g., you have received a disconnection notice or are out of fuel). It is available year-round until funds run out.
Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP): This provides a one-time annual payment to help eligible families pay their heating bills. It is not for emergencies; it is a scheduled benefit.

How to Apply:

You can apply for both programs online through the state’s portal or at your local county Department of Social Services.

Special Programs for Seniors (Age 60+)

Seniors in North Carolina receive priority access to energy assistance funds.

Early Application Period: Households with a person aged 60 or older (or receiving disability benefits) can apply for LIEAP starting December 1st, a full month before the general public. This “early bird” window helps ensure you receive funding before the allocation is exhausted.
Weatherization Assistance: Seniors are also prioritized for the Weatherization Assistance Program, which helps permanently reduce energy bills by improving home energy efficiency (insulation, air sealing, etc.) for free.

Assistance for Veterans

Veterans facing financial hardship have access to specialized funds that can help with utilities, rent, and other critical needs.

North Carolina Heroes Fund: This non-profit provides financial grants to veterans and active-duty military members who are experiencing a short-term financial crisis.
Operation Homefront: Offers Critical Financial Assistance for overdue utility bills for veterans and active military families.
Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): This program is focused on housing stability and can often assist with utility payments to prevent homelessness. Services are regional; for example, Veterans Services of the Carolinas covers many NC counties.

Assistance for Students

While students often do not qualify for general state welfare if they are claimed as dependents, many North Carolina universities maintain “Student Emergency Funds” specifically to help with essential needs like utilities during a personal crisis.

University-Specific Emergency Funds:

UNC Chapel Hill: Student Emergency Fund (Covers essential utilities)
NC State: Student Emergency Fund / Pack Essentials (Can assist with electricity, gas, and water)
UNC Greensboro: SAFE Fund (One-time emergency assistance)
East Carolina University: Students’ Treasure Chest
Duke University: Student Emergency Fund

Tip: If your school is not listed, visit your university’s Dean of Students office or financial aid website and search for “Emergency Grant” or “Crisis Fund.”