Duke Energy Foundation has announced $125,000 in grants to nine nonprofit organizations across South Carolina. The funds will help prepare homes for energy efficiency upgrades by addressing health and safety issues that prevent participation in weatherization programs.
The grants, up to $20,000 each, were awarded through a request for proposals process started in September. Recipients include Citizens United for Redevelopment and Economic Stability of Chester ($10,000), City of Florence ($10,000), Emmanuel’s Hammer ($20,000), Habitat for Humanity Greenville County ($20,000), Habitat for Humanity of York County ($10,000), Helping Florence Flourish ($10,000), Rebuild Upstate ($5,000), Sumter United Ministries ($20,000) and United Way of Hartsville ($20,000).
According to Duke Energy Foundation and the company itself, many homes in South Carolina cannot benefit from weatherization programs due to pre-existing problems such as roof leaks or electrical hazards.
Jerry Dudley, Planning Director for the City of Florence said: “The Duke Energy Foundation grant will enhance the city’s Weatherization and Rehabilitation Program by funding critical home repairs for income-challenged households. Several homeowners are in urgent need of roof repairs. These grant dollars will help extend the reach of the city’s program, allowing us to serve more families and address essential housing needs.”
John Lattimore, Chief Program Officer at Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County stated: “Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County is excited and honored to continue our partnership with Duke Energy and their commitment to providing a better quality of life for families in need. This specific funding will help provide warm, safe and dry conditions through critical home repairs for several deserving families. The need is great in our community and partners like Duke Energy allow us to meet more of that need.”
Tim Pearson, President at Duke Energy South Carolina said: “Many homes in our state have underlying safety issues that prevent homeowners from participating in energy efficiency and weatherization programs that can significantly moderate energy bills and decrease the growing demand on the energy grid. Recent legislative efforts have made it clear energy efficiency is critical to our long-term efforts to respond to growth in our state, and Duke Energy continues to look at new ways of expanding energy saving opportunities for our customers.”
In addition to these grants aimed at supporting local nonprofits’ repair work so more homes can qualify for upgrades, Duke Energy Progress began a pilot program in 2024 offering free energy improvements based on household income and usage. In 2025 incentives were increased along with eligibility expansion on several energy efficiency programs available throughout South Carolina.
Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually through philanthropic support funded by shareholders. More information about its activities can be found at duke-energy.com.
