Credit: Tom Sofield/NewtownPANow.com
Pennsylvania utility regulators are advising consumers to carefully take a look as December electric and natural gas bills arrive.
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) issued a reminder that bills typically peak in January and February due to increased heating demand.
According to weather data, December was colder than normal in Southeastern Pennsylvania, which could lead to higher bills due to increased usage.
The commission noted that even households that have not previously struggled with affordability may see significant month-to-month increases.
“You’re not alone,” the PUC said in a statement. “Many households across Pennsylvania are feeling the impact of colder weather and higher winter energy use — including families who may be encountering affordability concerns for the first time and may not know where to turn.”
The colder weather came along with an increase in power rates for PECO customers.
Officials are encouraging concerned residents to contact their utility companies immediately to discuss payment options before debt becomes unmanageable.
Utilities can provide information on budget billing plans, which smooth out seasonal spikes, as well as formal payment arrangements to prevent service disruptions, according to the PUC.
Eligible households may also qualify for Customer Assistance Programs (CAPs) or the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, LIHEAP offers grants to help pay heating bills and provides crisis assistance for emergency situations.
The PUC also recommended several conservation measures to help residents lower consumption during the state’s coldest months:
- Lowering thermostats by a few degrees while sleeping or away from home.
- Sealing drafts around windows and doors with weatherstripping.
- Opening curtains during sunny days to trap natural heat and closing them at night.
- Regularly replacing furnace filters to increase system efficiency.
- Limiting the use of space heaters and closing vents in unused rooms.
State regulators also suggested reducing hot water usage through shorter showers and cold-water laundry loads.
For more information on energy efficiency and shopping for energy providers, the PUC directs consumers to visit PAPowerSwitch.com and PAGasSwitch.com.
