- Free modem and anti-virus software
- No contracts and unlimited data
- Bundle with TV to save more
- Speeds up to 7 Gbps**
Quick Utility Facts
- Electricity is provided by Duke Energy. Check with them if you experience a power outage.
- The natural gas utility in Charlotte is Piedmont Gas.
- Internet service is available from AT&T Fiber, Spectrum, and in limited areas, GFiber.
- The cheapest internet plan is $30.00/month from Spectrum.
- The City of Charlotte provides water (Charlotte Water), trash, and recycling services.
Electric Providers in Charlotte
Electricity across the Queen City is supplied exclusively by Duke Energy Carolinas, an investor-owned utility operating under a fully regulated public utility framework overseen by the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC). Because North Carolina does not have a deregulated retail electricity market, you set up your account directly through Duke Energy’s portal. Standard residential rates include a fixed basic facilities charge ($14.00 per month) combined with volumetric energy charges, fuel adjustments, and clean energy riders that bring typical all-in residential electricity costs to roughly 14.5 to 15.5 cents per kWh. With hot, humid Piedmont summers driving central air conditioning hard from June through September, cooling represents the single largest slice of your power bill. To keep summer electric bills under control, Duke offers optional Time-of-Use rates and smart thermostat rebate programs, encouraging households to pre-cool their living spaces in the morning and shift heavy power draws — such as clothes dryers, dishwashers, and electric vehicle chargers — away from peak afternoon cooling windows.
Natural Gas Providers in Charlotte
Natural gas service across Charlotte and Mecklenburg County is distributed by Piedmont Natural Gas (a Duke Energy subsidiary), which owns, operates, and maintains the underground pipeline infrastructure and provides 24/7 emergency gas leak response. Natural gas is fully regulated by the NCUC, meaning your fuel commodity rate and physical pipeline delivery charges are bundled into state-approved tariffs rather than sold through independent retail energy brokers. Piedmont Natural Gas assesses a mandatory monthly facilities charge (roughly $10.00 to $14.00 per month) alongside volumetric distribution rates per therm. Because Charlotte winters are relatively mild with occasional freezing snaps, natural gas is primarily used to run central furnaces, water heaters, and cooking ranges. Usage drops off significantly once spring arrives; however, Piedmont’s fixed monthly facilities fee ensures your statement carries a baseline maintenance charge year-round, even in July and August when your heating system is turned off completely.
Top 11 Internet Providers in Charlotte
- 7 Gbps**
- Cable & Fiber
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 95.43%
- $30.00/mo
- Most Affordable Plans
- 5 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 91.14%
- $35.00/mo
- Get a $200 Reward Card*
- 400 Mbps
- Satellite
- Unlimited
- None
- 100%
- $55.00/mo
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 100%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Great for Renters
- 498 Mbps
- 5G
- 1.2 TB
- Mobile
- 99.99%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 99.98%
- $40.00/mo
- Wireless Internet
- 150 Mbps
- Satellite
- 150-850 GB
- Phone
- 100%
- $39.99/mo
- Varies
- Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite
- Varies
- 95%
- $39.95/mo
- 8 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 4.54%
- $30.00/mo
- 8 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- None
- 18.71%
- $70.00/mo
- 2 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- 16.22%
- $24.99/mo
Getting internet hooked up in Charlotte is great compared to many other cities because you have serious competition. Symmetrical fiber internet is widespread, led by Google Fiber — Charlotte was one of its early flagship expansion markets — and AT&T Fiber, both offering multi-gigabit speeds with no data caps. If fiber has not reached your street yet, Spectrum provides hybrid-fiber cable internet across virtually the entire city, alongside reliable 5G home internet from T-Mobile and Verizon. If you are moving into one of Charlotte’s older, tree-lined neighborhoods like Plaza Midwood, Dilworth, NoDa, or Myers Park, mature willow oaks and older utility easements can occasionally require an installer to plan an overhead drop carefully. If you are moving into a newer apartment or townhome in South End, Uptown, or Ballantyne, high-speed fiber is often pre-wired and ready to activate on day one.
Water & Sewage Providers in Charlotte
Water, wastewater collection, and stormwater services are managed by Charlotte Water (a department of the City of Charlotte), sourcing raw drinking supply from Mountain Island Lake and Lake Norman in the Catawba River Basin. Billed on a monthly cycle, Charlotte Water utilizes an escalating four-tiered volumetric pricing model alongside fixed monthly service and availability fees. Volumetric sewer treatment is billed at a flat rate ($6.88 per Ccf of water used). To protect single-family homeowners from paying inflated sewage bills while watering lawns or filling pools in the summer, Charlotte Water places a residential sewer cap at 16 Ccf per month. However, because indoor sewer charges match your incoming water volume up to that 16 Ccf threshold, unaddressed running toilets or hidden indoor plumbing leaks will quickly inflate both the water and sewer portions of your monthly bill.
Top 7 Trash and Recycling Providers in Charlotte
Trash and recycling in Charlotte are run by the City of Charlotte Solid Waste Services, and the system is simple once you know your schedule. Household garbage is collected every week in your gray rolling cart, while single-stream recycling is picked up every other week in your green rolling cart. The city divides neighborhoods into alternating “Green Week” and “Orange Week” recycling schedules, which you can look up by entering your address on the city’s portal. Charlotte’s Metrolina recycling facility enforces a strict “Only 6” rule for the green cart: cardboard, paper, cartons, metal cans, glass bottles/jars, and plastic bottles and jugs with necks. Rigid plastic food tubs, clamshell takeout boxes, and plastic bags are strictly prohibited in the green bin. Yard waste (leaves, grass clippings, small branches) is picked up weekly if placed in paper lawn bags or unlined 32-gallon cans. For bulky items like old sofas, mattresses, or appliances, the city provides free curbside pickup, but it is never automatic, you must schedule an appointment in advance by calling 311 or using the CLT+ mobile app. Roll your carts out by 6:00 AM on collection morning with at least three feet of space around each bin.
Utilities Summary for Charlotte, NC
| Electric Companies: | 1 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 1 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 1 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 7 |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Spectrum | Cable & Fiber | 7 Gbps |
| AT&T Fiber | Fiber | 5 Gbps |
| Starlink | Satellite | 400 Mbps |
| Verizon 5G Home Internet | 5G | 300 Mbps |
| T-Mobile 5G Home Internet | 5G | 498 Mbps |
| AT&T Air | 5G | 300 Mbps |
| Viasat | Satellite | 150 Mbps |
| Earthlink | Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite | Varies |
| TDS Telecom | Fiber | 8 Gbps |
| Google Fiber | Fiber | 8 Gbps |
| Kinetic | Fiber | 2 Gbps |
*Not all speeds available in all areas
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
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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.
-
Electricity (Duke Energy): Requires at least 3 days notice to ensure power is on when you arrive.
-
Water (Charlotte Water): Typically turned on within 24 to 48 hours of your request, but giving a few days’ buffer is safer.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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:
-
Electricity & Water: usually do not require you to be home, provided the meter is accessible and outside.
-
Natural Gas: You must be home if a technician needs to light pilot lights or inspect gas lines.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
What is Charlotte’s strict "Only 6" recycling rule?
To keep processing costs down and prevent machinery jams at the Metrolina Recycling Facility, Charlotte only accepts six items in curbside green carts: flattened cardboard, clean paper, cartons (milk/juice), metal cans, glass bottles/jars, and plastic bottles and jugs with narrow necks. Plastic yogurt tubs, clamshell berry containers, and plastic shopping bags are not accepted and must go into the gray garbage cart.
Where is Google Fiber available in Charlotte, and how does it compare to Spectrum?
Google Fiber has built out dedicated, symmetrical fiber-to-the-home coverage across large sections of Charlotte, particularly in areas like South End, Uptown, Plaza Midwood, Dilworth, NoDa, and parts of South Charlotte. It provides symmetrical upload and download speeds with no contracts or modem fees. Spectrum covers virtually the entire metro area over hybrid coax, offering fast download speeds, though standard plans feature lower upload bandwidth.