Another week of temperatures in the 90s is expected to keep air conditioners running across North Carolina, driving up electric bills as Duke Energy returns before state regulators to defend its proposed rate hike. "We listened to stakeholders and responded to the everyday cost pressures facing our customers," Duke Energy North Carolina President Kendal Bowman said in a statement announcing the agreement. "People should not have to choose between cutting on their air conditioner in extreme heat ... and affording their energy bill," Ratcliff said. The Environmental Defense Fund joined the settlements reached in both Duke Energy Progress and Duke Energy Carolinas' rate cases. The Utilities Commission will hear testimony from Duke Energy, state consumer advocates and other parties before deciding whether to approve, modify or reject the proposed settlement.