Beaufort, NC- The Carteret County Board of Education was recognized as a recipient of Duke Energy's 2026 Business Energy Excellence (BEE) Award in recognition of the district's continued commitment to energy efficiency and outstanding participation in Duke Energy's energy efficiency programs.

Since 2022, Carteret County Public Schools has achieved significant results through energy efficiency improvements across the district:

• 1,247,389 kWh of verified energy savings

• $186,320 in Duke Energy incentive funding received

• $127,689 in estimated utility cost savings

• More than $314,000 in combined financial value through incentives and avoided energy costs

• An estimated 353 tons of carbon emissions reduced

These accomplishments demonstrate Carteret County Public Schools' dedication to responsible stewardship of district resources while creating more efficient and sustainable learning environments for students and staff. The district's continued participation in Duke Energy programs has produced measurable energy and financial savings that benefit the community as a whole.

The award was accepted by Kenny Pederson, Director of Facility Support Operations, Lewis Seely, Leadman Electrician, and James Williams, Electrician. Also recognized were Electricians, Marc Warren and Clark Joyner, who were unable to attend the meeting.