It’ll cost a lot to keep your home cool this summer. The National Energy Assistance Directors Association predicts that Americans will pay an average of $719 between June and September.
According to a report from the NEADA, this summer could have some dire consequences for families throughout Texas.
Here’s why.
Summer electric bills for Texas
According to NEADA, those living in the West South Central region—which includes Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma—could have an energy bill as high as $858 this summer, a $15 difference from last summer.
The region has the highest average electric bill estimate compared to other regions in the nation.
No air conditioning for low-income families
NEADA’s report points out that many low-income families might not be able to afford air conditioning in their homes. Some families have their power cut off because they can’t afford the energy bill and their homes are too hot to live in.
Others try to get by on hot days by opening their windows, taking a cool shower, and hoping the outside air cools down at night. But with hotter temperatures and dangerous outside air, opening a window can make the issue worse.
More: Heat-related illnesses rising in Austin amid climate change, officials say
Energy bill debt increases nationwide
Summer air conditioning bills are piling up after a winter of expensive heating. The amount people owe their utilities went up from $17.5 billion in January 2023 to $20.3 billion in December 2023. According to NEADA, about 16% of American households, which is around 21.2 million, are behind on paying their energy bills.
Beat the Texas heat: What’s the best temperature to set your air conditioner thermostat?
What can Texans do to save on their energy bill?
It’s going to be a hot summer. People are always looking for ways to get around on high-energy bills. Here are some tips.
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Set your thermostat to a higher temperature in the summer and lower in the winter.
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Use energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs.
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Seal drafts around windows and doors to prevent air leaks.
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Keep blinds or curtains closed during hot summer days to block out sunlight.
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Use ceiling fans to help circulate air and reduce the need for air conditioning.
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Consider investing in solar panels or other renewable energy sources.
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Sign up for energy-saving programs offered by your utility company.
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Unplug electronics and appliances when not in use to prevent energy waste.
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Wash clothes in cold water and air dry them when possible to save on energy used by your dryer.
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Use programmable thermostats to automatically adjust temperature settings when you’re away from home.
This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texans can expect to pay up to $858 in energy bills this summer: Report
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