- 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
- The electric utility is Duke Energy. Call them for power outages.
- Raleigh’s natural gas utility is Enbridge Gas.
- Internet service is provided by Spectrum, AT&T Fiber, and in about half of the region, gFiber.
- The cheapest internet plan in Raleigh is $30.00/month from Spectrum.
- Raleigh Water provides water and sewer services to the area.
- Weekly trash and recycling services are provided by the City of Raleigh.
Top 2 Electric Providers in Raleigh
Electricity across the City of Oaks is delivered by Duke Energy Progress (DEP), an investor-owned electric utility operating under a fully regulated public utility framework overseen by the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC). A critical regional distinction is that while Charlotte is powered by Duke Energy Carolinas, Raleigh falls under Duke Energy Progress, which operates distinct generation assets, rate schedules, and historical tariffs. Setting up service is handled directly through Duke Energy’s online portal. Standard residential rates combine a basic monthly facilities fee (around $14.00) with volumetric base energy charges and seasonal fuel adjustments, bringing typical all-in residential electricity costs to roughly 13.0 to 14.5 cents per kWh. With hot, humid Piedmont summers keeping central air conditioning running hard from late May through September, cooling represents the single largest slice of your electric bill. To keep power bills under control, Duke Energy Progress offers optional Time-of-Use rate options where power used outside peak afternoon windows (typically 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM on summer weekdays) is discounted, making it worthwhile to pre-cool living spaces in the morning and shift heavy power loads — such as clothes dryers, dishwashers, and electric vehicle charging — to off-peak hours.
Natural Gas Providers in Raleigh
Natural gas service across Raleigh and Wake County is distributed and supplied by Enbridge Gas, which owns, operates, and maintains the underground pipeline mains and provides 24/7 emergency gas leak response. Natural gas operates as a fully regulated utility under NCUC oversight, meaning your fuel commodity rate and physical pipeline delivery fees are bundled together into state-approved tariffs, protecting homeowners against private third-party retail broker markups. Enbridge Gas assesses a mandatory monthly facilities charge alongside volumetric distribution rates per therm. Because Raleigh experiences relatively mild winters punctuated by sharp sub-freezing cold snaps, natural gas is primarily relied on for central forced-air furnaces, domestic water heaters, and cooking ranges between November and March. Volumetric consumption drops off dramatically once spring arrives; however, Enbridge Gas’s fixed monthly facilities fee ensures your statement carries a baseline connection charge year-round, even in July or August when your home heating equipment sits completely idle.
Top 11 Internet Providers in Raleigh
- 7 Gbps**
- Cable & Fiber
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 94.29%
- $30.00/mo
- Most Affordable Plans
- 5 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 92.82%
- $35.00/mo
- Get a $200 Reward Card*
- 8 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- 51.89%
- $70.00/mo
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 100%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Great for Renters
- 498 Mbps
- 5G
- 1.2 TB
- Mobile
- 99.78%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 99.7%
- $40.00/mo
- Wireless Internet
- 400 Mbps
- Satellite
- Unlimited
- 100%
- $55.00/mo
- 150 Mbps
- Satellite
- 150-850 GB
- Phone
- 100%
- $39.99/mo
- Varies
- Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite
- Varies
- 95%
- $39.95/mo
- 2 Gbps
- Fiber
- 1 TB
- 23.11%
- $29.00/mo
- 7 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Phone
- 2.23%
- $29.99/mo
Getting internet set up in Raleigh is fantastic because the Research Triangle has some of the best fiber competition in the country. Symmetrical, multi-gigabit fiber is widely available through Google Fiber and AT&T Fiber, both offering fast upload and download speeds with no data caps or equipment rental fees. If fiber hasn’t made it to your specific street yet, Spectrum provides reliable cable internet across virtually every neighborhood, alongside solid 5G home internet options from T-Mobile and Verizon. If you’re moving into one of Raleigh’s historic, leafy neighborhoods — like a bungalow in Historic Oakwood, Boylan Heights, or Hayes Barton — dense oak canopies and older overhead lines can occasionally require an installer to plan the line drop to your house carefully. On the other hand, if you’re settling into a newer apartment or condo in Downtown Raleigh, North Hills, or out toward Brier Creek, high-speed fiber is often pre-wired and ready to switch on the day you move in.
Water & Sewage Providers in Raleigh
Water, sanitary sewer, and stormwater drainage services are managed directly by Raleigh Water (City of Raleigh), which supplies clean tap water from Falls Lake and Lake Benson to Raleigh and several surrounding Wake County communities (Garner, Wake Forest, Rolesville, Knightdale, Wendell, and Zebulon). Billed on a single monthly municipal statement, Raleigh Water uses an escalating tiered volumetric pricing structure alongside fixed monthly meter service fees. Wastewater collection and treatment fees are billed volumetrically based directly on your incoming metered water volume. Because Raleigh Water does not provide an automatic summer sewer cap or discount for seasonal outdoor watering, every gallon of water that flows through your meter — whether for indoor showers, running lawn sprinklers, or topping off a backyard pool — is billed for sewer treatment. For that reason, fixing running toilet flappers or hidden plumbing leaks promptly is essential to avoid compounding costs on both sides of your monthly city bill.
Top 15 Trash and Recycling Providers in Raleigh
Trash and recycling in Raleigh are handled by the City of Raleigh Solid Waste Services, with curbside fees billed directly onto your monthly city water statement. Household garbage goes into your dark green cart and is picked up weekly, and the city asks that all trash be bagged before going into the bin to keep odors down and prevent litter. Curbside recycling is collected every other week in your blue cart on the same day as your garbage, and everything must go into the blue cart completely loose — never bag your recycling, or the truck will skip your house. If you do yard work, you can set out yard waste weekly in a city-issued light green cart, up to 15 biodegradable paper lawn bags, or 5 tied bundles of branches. For large furniture and mattresses, Raleigh charges a $35 fee per Bulky Load pickup (for up to 4 cubic yards, like two couches or three mattresses) scheduled in advance by calling 919-996-3245, while curbside electronics (E-waste) can be picked up for free on Tuesdays. Just roll your carts out to the curb by 6:00 AM on collection morning with at least three feet of clearance around each bin.
Utilities Summary for Raleigh, NC
| Electric Companies: | 2 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 1 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 1 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 15 |
| Municipal Electricity: | No |
Essential Utility Services For Your Home in Raleigh
Raleigh, the vibrant capital of North Carolina, blends a rich history with a lively tech‑driven future. Known for its greenways, thriving arts scene, and friendly neighborhoods, it’s a city full of charm and opportunity. Whether you’re here for work, family, or the amazing barbecue, you’ll find Raleigh welcoming and easy to navigate.
Electricity Provider: Duke Energy
Duke Energy is the primary electricity provider for most residents in Raleigh. They offer reliable service, multiple rate plans, and robust energy efficiency incentives. Through their Smart $aver® Home Improvement Rebate Program, you can earn rebates on HVAC upgrades, heat‑pump water heaters, insulation, air sealing, and even pool pumps. Their “Find It Duke” network connects you with certified contractors who handle installation and paperwork.
Efficiency Rebates & Green Incentives
- HVAC rebate
- Heat pump water heater rebate
- Insulation and air sealing rebate
- Pool pump rebate
Natural Gas: Enbridge Gas
Effective September 30, 2024, Enbridge Inc. acquired Dominion Energy’s natural gas assets in North Carolina. Now known as Enbridge Gas North Carolina, they serve over 600,000 customers, providing natural gas service across 28 counties, including Raleigh. They’ve stepped into the region with a familiar team and local presence, ensuring a smooth transition for customers.
Services & Customer Experience
Enbridge Gas North Carolina offers an easy-to-use online system to start, stop, or transfer service, and continued access to features like eBill, AutoPay, and Budget Billing. Emergency support is available 24/7 at 1‑877‑776‑2427. Their service model ensures reliability and retains North Carolina Utilities Commission oversight.
Energy Efficiency & Rebates
Enbridge continues Dominion’s legacy of offering energy efficiency programs, such as:
- Rebates for high-efficiency gas furnaces, heat pump water heaters, and smart thermostats
- Participation in statewide HEAR/HOMES rebate programs through North Carolina Energy Saver
- Support for income-qualified customers and partnerships with community agencies, potentially offering full-to-partial coverage for efficiency upgrades
Community & Sustainability Programs
Enbridge is committed to local sustainability and community support through:
- Infrastructure upgrades and pipeline replacement to enhance safety
- Financial assistance programs similar to Dominion’s “Share the Warmth” initiatives
- Continued involvement in community projects and local giving
Water & Trash: City of Raleigh Utilities
The City of Raleigh Water, Sewer and Solid Waste Services serve water, sewer, stormwater, and trash/recycling services. They make it easy to manage everything online and by phone, and offer supportive programs:
Utility Customer Assistance Program (UCAP)
- Helps with payment plans and bill assistance
- Project Share emergency grant: funded by customer and corporate donations, assists with water, trash, sewer, and stormwater in crisis
Tips to Save
- Fix leaks promptly
- Opt for rain barrels and mindful landscaping
- Reduce trash via recycling and composting
- Request low‑flow aerators from Raleigh Water
Best Internet Providers in Raleigh
Here are the top internet options in Raleigh:
- Spectrum: Widely available (92% of the city), cable service offering speeds up to 1 Gbps, no data caps.
- AT&T Fiber: Fastest in many areas, with up to 5 Gbps symmetric speeds through their fiber network; availability varies by neighborhood but available in about 84% of Raleigh.
- Google Fiber: Limited availability, about half of Raleigh has access, but offers ultra-fast 1 Gbps plans if you’re lucky to be in a service area.
- T‑Mobile Home Internet: Wireless 5G-based option averaging 100–150 Mbps down; easy setup and no contracts.
Choosing the best depends on your zip code, usage (e.g., remote work, gaming, streaming), and available promotions, check multiple providers to compare bundles and installation deals.
Conservation & Green Energy Choices
Raleigh encourages sustainability and green living:
- Solar for All / EnergizeNC: North Carolina received a $156M federal grant to expand rooftop and community solar for low-income households statewide, with public rollout expected in Fall 2025
- Renewable Portfolio Standard: Duke Energy must source 12.5% of energy from renewables or efficiency measures by state law
- Community solar programs: Potentially available through Duke, ideal if rooftop solar isn’t possible
- Solarize the Triangle Program: Helped participants obtain discounts on solar equipment.
- DIY conservation: Smart thermostats, LED switches, low-flow fixtures, efficient appliances, and turning off standby electronics, all add up
Financial Assistance Options for Utility Bills in Raleigh
If managing utility bills is a concern, several programs are there to help:
City of Raleigh Utilities
- UCAP: Payment plans and support, contact via Web Self Service or at 888‑905‑3169
- Project Share: Emergency grants funded by community donations, contact via Water & Sewer billing
Wake County
- Offers assistance for electric, gas, heating, cooling, and water bills for eligible households
State & Federal
- NC Energy Saver NC rebates: HEAR/HOMES programs. Call 866‑998‑8555
- Low-income Solar for All: Expanding solar access statewide for eligible residents
Steps to pursue help:
- Evaluate your monthly income against program thresholds (UCAP, Project Share, HEAR/HOMES).
- Apply online via City of Raleigh or Wake County.
- For rebates, schedule a home energy assessment or hire a registered contractor.
- Combine rebates + utility programs, savings stack up!
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.
Raleigh Internet Connectivity
Fastest Internet Providers in Raleigh
| Provider | Connection Type | Download Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Spectrum | Cable & Fiber | 7 Gbps |
| AT&T Fiber | Fiber | 5 Gbps |
| Google Fiber | Fiber | 8 Gbps |
| Verizon 5G Home Internet | 5G | 300 Mbps |
| T-Mobile 5G Home Internet | 5G | 498 Mbps |
| AT&T Air | 5G | 300 Mbps |
| Starlink | Satellite | 400 Mbps |
| Viasat | Satellite | 150 Mbps |
| Earthlink | Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite | Varies |
| Brightspeed | Fiber | 2 Gbps |
| Frontier | Fiber | 7 Gbps |
*Not all speeds available in all areas
Raleigh 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.
Raleigh's Primary Drinking Water Source: Surface Water
Drinking Water Contaminant Levels
Legal limit: 15 ppb
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Legal limit: 60 ppb
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Legal limit: 0.004 ppb
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Utilities in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "Paper Bag Rule" for yard waste?
Raleigh is very serious about composting. Unlike many cities that allow plastic bags for grass clippings and leaves, Raleigh prohibits plastic bags for yard waste. You must use biodegradable paper bags or a city-issued yard waste cart. If you use plastic, the “City of Oaks” will leave it on your curb with a polite but firm orange tag.
When is "Loose Leaf" season?
If your new home has a yard full of majestic oaks, you’ll love this: from November to February, the city runs specialized vacuum trucks to suck up loose leaf piles from the curb. You don’t have to bag them during this window! Check the “Raleigh Reuse” app for your specific “zone” dates so you don’t miss the vacuum.
What do I do with all these fallen branches?
Raleigh offers curbside “bi-weekly” branch pickup. However, there’s a catch: they must be less than 6 inches in diameter and no longer than 5 feet. If you’re clearing a lot of brush at your new place, make sure the “butt ends” of the branches face the street to help the crews.
Why does "Raleigh Water" show up on my bill if I live in Wake Forest or Garner?
Don’t worry, you haven’t been billed for the wrong city! Raleigh Water is a massive regional utility that provides service for Raleigh, Garner, Knightdale, Rolesville, Wake Forest, Wendell, and Zebulon.
Can I get the $50 water deposit waived?
Raleigh typically charges a $50 initiation fee/deposit for new accounts. However, if you have a “Letter of Credit” from your previous utility provider showing 12 months of on-time payments, or if you agree to sign up for AutoPay immediately, you can often get this deposit waived.
What is the "Pollen-pocalypse" and how does it affect my power bill?
Every spring, Raleigh is covered in a thick layer of yellow pine pollen. This pollen can clog your outdoor AC condenser unit, forcing it to work twice as hard and spiking your Duke Energy bill. A local “pro tip” for new residents is to gently hose down your AC unit’s exterior coils after the yellow dust settles in late April.
Why is there orange spray paint and digging on my new street?
Raleigh is a major battleground for Google Fiber, AT&T Fiber, and Lumos. If you see “micro-trenching” (small slits being cut into the edge of the road), it usually means high-speed fiber is being installed. This is the best time to check for “early bird” sign-up specials.
Does Duke Energy offer "Time of Use" rates?
Yes! Since North Carolina is a regulated market, Duke Energy Progress offers a specific “Time of Use” plan. If you work in tech and can shift your heavy energy usage (like the dishwasher or EV charging) to off-peak hours, you can save a significant amount compared to the standard flat rate.
What is the "Raleigh Reuse" App?
This is the single most important app for a new resident. It gives you a personalized calendar for trash, recycling, and yard waste. It also has a “Waste Wizard” feature where you can type in “bubble wrap” or “pizza box” to find out exactly which bin it goes in, preventing “wish-cycling” that can lead to fines.
How do I handle the "moving box mountain"?
If your blue recycling bin is overflowing with Amazon or moving boxes, don’t leave them in a stack on the curb, the automated trucks can’t grab them. You are allowed to flatten and bundle them (no larger than 3ft x 3ft) next to the bin, or take them to one of the Wake County Convenience Centers if you want them gone immediately.