- Free modem and anti-virus software
- No contracts and unlimited data
- 30 day money-back gurantee
- Speeds up to 2 Gbps**
- Plans starting at $30/month
Electric Providers in Charlotte
Duke Energy is the primary electricity provider for the Charlotte metro area. You can start, stop, or transfer service by visiting their website or calling 800-777-9898, ideally at least three business days before your move-in date. New customers may be required to pay a security deposit, which is determined by a credit check at the time of application.
Natural Gas Providers in Charlotte
Piedmont Natural Gas is the main provider for natural gas in the region. To set up service, submit a request online or call 800-752-7504; it is best to provide at least a few days’ notice as a technician may need to visit your home to safely turn on the gas and light pilot lights. Be prepared to provide your social security number and potentially pay a deposit if you do not have an established credit history with them.
Top 9 Internet Providers in Charlotte
The major internet providers in Charlotte include AT&T Fiber, Spectrum, and Google Fiber, though availability varies heavily by neighborhood. You should compare plans and check specific address availability on each provider’s website before scheduling an installation date, which can sometimes take a week or more to secure.
- 5 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 80.78%
- $34.00/mo
- Best For Speed
- 2 Gbps**
- Cable
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 93.31%
- $30.00/mo
- Most Affordable Plans
- 415 Mbps
- 5G
- 1.2 TB
- Mobile
- 99.99%
- $50.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 99.84%
- $47.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 100%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 150 Mbps
- Satellite
- 150-850 GB
- Phone
- 100%
- $39.99/mo
- 350 Mbps
- Satellite
- Unlimited
- 100%
- $50.00/mo
- 8 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- 15.69%
- $70.00/mo
- 2 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- 4.53%
- $24.99/mo
Water & Sewage Providers in Charlotte
Charlotte Water provides water and sewer services, and you can establish service by calling 311 (or 704-336-7600) or by submitting an application on the City of Charlotte website. New customers must provide a Social Security number and government-issued ID, and they may need to pay a deposit based on credit history. Requests should be made a few days in advance, and water is typically turned on within 24 to 48 hours of the request.
Top 8 Trash and Recycling Providers in Charlotte
For most residents within city limits, City of Charlotte Solid Waste Services handles trash collection, which is automatically set up when you activate your water service. You can find your specific pickup day by entering your address on the city’s website or the “CLT+” app; however, if you live in an apartment complex or outside city limits, you may need to contract individually with a private hauler.
Utilities Summary for Charlotte, NC
| Electric Companies: | 1 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 1 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 1 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 8 |
| Municipal Electricity: | No |
Connect Your Home to Essential Utility Providers in Charlotte
Charlotte, known as the Queen City, is North Carolina’s largest metro area and a vibrant, fast-growing hub of finance, sports, and Southern charm. With major employers like Bank of America and Atrium Health, a booming housing market, and plenty of green space, Charlotte is an appealing place to settle down. Whether you’re moving into a high-rise Uptown or a historic home in Dilworth, getting your utilities set up is one of the first things you’ll want to tackle.
Electricity – Duke Energy
Duke Energy Carolinas is the primary electricity provider for Charlotte and most of Mecklenburg County. Duke is one of the largest utilities in the country and has invested heavily in modernizing its grid and expanding renewable energy projects across the Carolinas. Duke Energy has pledged to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and their Carolinas division already sources nearly 40% of its power from carbon-free resources like nuclear and hydroelectric.
Programs, Rebates, and Highlights
Duke Energy offers several energy efficiency and money-saving programs for homeowners:
- Smart $aver® Program: Offers rebates for upgrades like:
- High-efficiency HVAC systems
- Heat pump water heaters
- Insulation and air sealing
- Smart thermostats
- Home Energy House Call: A free in-home energy assessment, which includes installation of free LED bulbs, faucet aerators, weather stripping, and more.
- Time-of-Use Pricing Plans: Optional billing plans that reward you for shifting energy use to off-peak hours.
- Renewable Energy Options:
- Duke Energy customers can enroll in the Green Source Advantage program or sign up for community solar (where available).
- Rebates may be available for installing residential solar panels (though space is limited).
Natural Gas – Piedmont Natural Gas
Natural gas service in Charlotte is provided by Piedmont Natural Gas, which is a subsidiary of Duke Energy, but it operates as a separate entity and is the only residential natural gas provider in the Charlotte area.
Rebates and Efficiency Programs
Piedmont offers several ways to save money and reduce energy consumption:
- Appliance Rebates for switching to energy-efficient natural gas:
- Tankless water heaters
- Furnaces and boilers
- Commercial-grade equipment for small businesses
- Energy-saving tips and calculators available online to help homeowners optimize gas usage.
- Equal Payment Plan to help customers avoid seasonal spikes in winter heating bills.
Community Support
Piedmont’s Share the Warmth program helps low-income families with winter heating bills. You can also round up your bill each month to donate to this fund.
Water, Sewer, and Trash – Charlotte Water & City Services
Charlotte Water, a department of the City of Charlotte, is the sole provider of water and sewer services for residential customers in the city. Trash, recycling, yard waste, and bulky item collection are also managed by the City of Charlotte Solid Waste Services.
What You Need to Know
- Water and sewer service are billed together and usually show up as a separate bill from your energy providers.
- Trash and recycling services are included in your property taxes, so you don’t need to set up a separate account.
- Pickup schedules depend on your address and are published on the city’s website.
Conservation Tools
Charlotte Water encourages sustainable usage with programs like:
- Free Water Smart Kits: Includes low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators for indoor water conservation.
- Leak Alerts: Automatic alerts if your meter detects unusual usage.
- Rain Barrel Workshops: Occasional events that teach residents how to capture and use rainwater for outdoor use.
Best Internet Providers in Charlotte
Charlotte is home to a wide selection of internet service providers, including top-tier fiber options and budget-friendly alternatives:
- AT&T Fiber: Available in just over 80% of the area, offering speeds up to 5 Gbps. Highly reliable fiber service, no data caps.
- Google Fiber: Availability is very limited, but expanding. Symmetrical speeds up to 8 Gbps. Widely loved for its customer service and consistent pricing.
- Spectrum: Most widely available option, covering 93% of the city. Cable internet offering speeds up to 1 Gbps. Includes free modem and no data caps.
- T-Mobile 5G Home Internet: Fixed wireless internet with plug-and-play setup. Speeds up to 245 Mbps.
- Verizon 5G Home: Another wireless alternative offering similar speeds and a simple setup.
Tips for Choosing a Provider
- If you work from home or stream a lot, fiber is your best bet.
- If you’re on a budget or need a no-contract plan, wireless options like T-Mobile or Verizon 5G may suit your needs.
- Bundling internet with mobile or TV can sometimes unlock discounts.
Green Energy and Sustainability Programs
Charlotte’s Push for Clean Energy
Charlotte is committed to sustainability and has a Strategic Energy Action Plan (SEAP) aiming for a low-carbon future by 2050. The city supports renewable energy, electric vehicles, and energy-efficient buildings.
Opportunities for Residents
- Solar Rebate Programs: While state-level solar rebates have decreased, federal incentives still apply.
- Federal Tax Credit: Homeowners can claim a 30% tax credit on residential solar systems and energy-efficient home upgrades through 2032.
- Energy Saver NC: A statewide resource with information on home energy efficiency programs, rebates, and certified contractors.
Financial Assistance for Utility Bills in Charlotte
Local and State Programs That Can Help
If you need help paying your utility bills, there are several programs in Charlotte that may provide support:
- Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP):
- Provides a one-time annual payment to help cover heating costs.
- Apply through Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services.
- Crisis Intervention Program (CIP):
- Helps households experiencing a heating or cooling-related emergency.
- Share the Warmth (Piedmont Natural Gas):
- Offers heating bill assistance for eligible families during the winter months.
- Energy Neighbor Fund (Duke Energy):
- Provides emergency energy bill help for low-income families in crisis.
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP):
- Free energy upgrades for income-eligible homes, including insulation, air sealing, and HVAC repairs.
- Charlotte’s High Energy Use Program:
- A pilot initiative offering home weatherization services and repairs to reduce high utility bills in lower-income neighborhoods.
About the Author
David has been an integral part of some of the biggest utility sites on the internet, including InMyArea.com, HighSpeedInternet.com, BroadbandNow.com, and U.S. News. He brings over 15 years of experience writing about, compiling and analyzing utility data.
Charlotte Internet Connectivity
Fastest Internet Providers in Charlotte
| Provider | Connection Type | Download Speed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Fiber | Fiber | 5 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Spectrum | Cable | 2 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| T-Mobile 5G Home Internet | 5G | 415 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| AT&T Air | 5G | 300 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Verizon 5G Home Internet | 5G | 300 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Viasat | Satellite | 150 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Starlink | Satellite | 350 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Google Fiber | Fiber | 8 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Kinetic | Fiber | 2 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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Charlotte Drinking Water Quality Information
Clean drinking water is essential for maintaining good health and overall well-being. Safe, contaminant-free water helps prevent the spread of diseases, supports proper hydration, and ensures the body's vital functions operate smoothly.
Charlotte's Primary Drinking Water Source: Surface Water
Drinking Water Contaminant Levels
Legal limit: 15 ppb
Legal limit: 100 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: 60 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
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Utilities in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I request my utility services be connected?
It is best to schedule your services at least 3 to 5 business days before your move-in date.
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Electricity (Duke Energy): Requires at least 3 days notice to ensure power is on when you arrive.
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Water (Charlotte Water): Typically turned on within 24 to 48 hours of your request, but giving a few days’ buffer is safer.
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Internet: Installation appointments can book up weeks in advance, so schedule this as soon as you have a closing or lease date.
Will I need to pay a deposit to start utility services in Charlotte?
Most likely, yes, unless you have an established credit history with the specific provider.
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Duke Energy & Piedmont Natural Gas: May waive the deposit if you pass a credit check or can provide a letter of credit from a previous utility company. Otherwise, deposits often range from 1 to 2 times the average monthly bill.
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Charlotte Water: Often requires a deposit for new customers, which is applied to your final bill when you move out.
Do I need to be home for my utility activation appointments?
It depends on the service:
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Electricity & Water: usually do not require you to be home, provided the meter is accessible and outside.
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Natural Gas: You must be home if a technician needs to light pilot lights or inspect gas lines.
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Internet: You typically need to be home for the initial installation to let the technician inside.
How do I get trash and recycling bins for my new home?
If you live within Charlotte city limits, trash and recycling are city-managed services included in your property taxes.
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Existing Homes: Bins should already be at the property. If they are missing or damaged, call 311 or submit a request online through the City of Charlotte website.
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New Construction: You must call 311 to order your initial set of bins once you have closed on the home.
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Apartments/Outside City Limits: Check with your property manager or contract individually with a private hauler (like Republic Services or Waste Management).
What documents do I need to set up water service with Charlotte Water?
To establish a new water account, you typically need to provide your Social Security Number and a valid government-issued ID. Renters may also be required to provide a copy of their lease agreement to verify residency.
Who do I call before digging a fence or mailbox post?
You must call 811 (North Carolina 811) or visit nc811.org at least three full working days before digging. They will coordinate with local utilities to mark underground electric, gas, and water lines for free to prevent dangerous accidents.