Just like the summer when our air conditioning is running nonstop, our HVAC systems are working overtime now to keep us warm and comfortable in these freezing temperatures. All that power can add up and make our energy bills skyrocket.

Duke Energy set a new power usage record on Thursday, during a major cold snap that gripped the Carolinas. Parts of the Carolinas had about 65 hours of freezing or below freezing temperatures beginning Jan.

Meeting the insatiable demand for energy has been accentuated by the rapid growth of AI data centers. By 2030, it is estimated they will consume 9% of all the electricity generated domestically. This is driving many electric companies to turn to nuclear reactors and various sorts of renewable and clean energy options.

Duke Energy is reporting 9,000 power outages from Tallahassee to Port St. Joe. Tuesday’s historic winter storm is to blame, as utility crews work to get customers’ lights back on. Ana Gibbs is the spokesperson for Duke Energy. She told WFSU on Wednesday that crew members have traveled across Florida, working to get power restored.

Duke Energy's Jeff Brooks says power crews are preparing for the historic winter storm causing power outages throughout the southern U.S. and Gulf Coast on Jan. 21.