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.

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 hoping to get a share of federal funding to help develop next-generation small-scale nuclear reactors of the kind that could go into its Belews Creek station after its planned decommissioning as a coal plant in 10 years.

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.