North Carolina Town Files Historic Climate Lawsuit Against Duke Energy

Carrboro accuses the utility giant of decades-long deception about climate change, seeking damages for exacerbated environmental impacts.

Carrboro, NC, has filed the first U.S. lawsuit against an electric utility, alleging Duke Energy misled the public about the dangers of fossil fuel emissions for over 50 years.
The lawsuit accuses Duke Energy of delaying the transition to renewable energy through misinformation campaigns and 'greenwashing' practices.
Carrboro claims it faces millions in costs for infrastructure repairs and climate adaptation due to Duke's actions, including damage from extreme weather events like Hurricane Helene.
The case builds on a growing trend of lawsuits by states and municipalities holding corporations accountable for their role in the climate crisis.
Duke Energy, one of the largest U.S. carbon emitters, has pledged renewable energy expansion but continues significant reliance on fossil fuels, which critics argue undermines climate progress.