Compare Utility Providers in Charlotte, NC

Electric Providers in Charlotte

Natural Gas Providers in Charlotte

Top 10 Internet Providers in Charlotte

*Not all internet providers and speeds available in all areas.

Water & Sewage Providers in Charlotte

Top 8 Trash and Recycling Providers in Charlotte

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.

Charlotte Internet Connectivity

Fastest Internet Providers in Charlotte

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.