Bribery, Kickbacks and Other Improper Payments Duke Energy's Code of Business Ethics

Duke Energy maintains the highest level of integrity when dealing with government officials and members of the private sector. Giving anything of value to such individuals may raise questions about Duke Energy's integrity. We demonstrate accountability by refusing to give gifts or make payments that are intended to influence, or could appear to influence, business decisions.

Bribery laws prohibit companies from directly or indirectly promising, offering or making payment of money or anything of value to anyone (including a government official, an agent or employee of a political party, labor organization or business entity, or a political candidate) with the intent to induce favorable business treatment or to improperly affect business or government decisions.

Decisions about gift giving must be carefully evaluated. In general, Duke Energy does not consider ordinary and reasonable business entertainment, or gifts of nominal value that are customary and legal in the local market, to be improper. We recognize that in certain cultures, gifts of a more substantial nature may be customary and expected.

However, we also recognize that the giving of improper gifts or payments can undermine customer relationships, damage our reputation and result in legal penalties. Employees must refrain from giving gifts or making payments that are intended to influence, or could appear to influence, business decisions.

Note: These laws and regulations are complex and can vary from country to country, and even within a country (e.g., local versus national officials) and from state to state. This Code does not necessarily take into account all local legal requirements and you should be aware that more restrictive local laws take precedence over this Code.

Our Responsibilities

Duke Energy employees are expected to be extremely careful when giving anything of value to third parties to avoid giving the impression that we are trying to influence another person's business decision.

Duke Energy employees must:

  • Ensure that business entertainment provided to third parties is reasonable and customary.
  • Offer only gifts that are considered customary, reasonable, legal and of nominal value in the local market.
  • Obtain prior approval from management before making a decision about whether or not to offer a gift that is of more than nominal value in the local market.
  • Comply with local laws and regulations governing gifts and meals given to public officials and employees of governmental agencies.
  • Understand that it is generally not acceptable to give gifts or gratuities to any federal, state or local government employees.

Employees must not:

  • Give gifts that are intended to influence, or appear to influence, business decisions.
  • Agree to provide any payment or other kickback in return for favorable treatment for either the employee or Duke Energy.

Q&A

Q: How do I know whether a gift or payment is improper or not?
A: A gift or payment is improper if it is used to influence, or appears to influence, a business decision. If you have questions as to whether a gift or payment could be considered improper, seek guidance before taking any action.