SC power bills forecast to soar this summer. Here’s how much more folks will pay
Think your power bills were high last summer?
You haven’t seen anything yet.
U.S. electricity bills are expected to skyrocket to $719 in total for June through September on average, a 7.9% increase over last year, according to the National Energy Assistance Directors Association and the Center for Energy Poverty, and Climate.
The unprecedented rise in summer temperatures and higher rates of extreme heat events over the last decade has caused summer cooling costs to increase from $476 in 2014 to a predicted $719 across the U.S. in 2024, according to NEADA. The organization calculated the increase using NOAA temperature data and EIA electric use and price data.
But what about the predicted specific rate increase for South Carolina residents? Check it out below.
Summer power bill increase for SC
According to the forecast, South Carolinians will spend $792 on cooling costs this summer on average — a 7.4% jump from the $733 residents paid on average last summer.
The predicted South Carolina cost is also 10.15% higher than the expected $719 national average. However, South Carolinians can take solace that their state doesn’t have the highest predicted electricity bills this summer. That honor goes to Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana, all of which are forecast to have electricity bills rise to $858 on average for the summer.
Why electricity bills are soaring for SC
There are multiple factors that influence electricity prices. The ever fluctuating price of fuel that utilities use to generate power, regulations and the cost of building and operating power plants and grids all impact prices.
However, the main factor behind higher electricity bills is summer weather. When temperatures get particularly hot, people will naturally lower their thermostats to keep cool, raising their energy bills as a result.
For summer 2024 in South Carolina, the National Weather Service predicts months of above average heat. Specifically, the NWS Climate Prediction Center calls for a 40% to 50% chance of South Carolina having above normal temperatures in July, August and September.
Energy saving tips
Dominion Energy has several tips to help South Carolinians save money on their power bills over the summer.
- Check air filters monthly and change when dirty
- Periodically check your ductwork for leaks or tears
- Have your central heating and cooling system serviced annually
- Upgrade your attic insulation to a minimum of R-38 (12-14 inches)
- Caulk, seal and weather-strip around all seams, cracks and openings
- Install a door sweep to seal the gap between the bottom of your door and the threshold
This story was originally published June 12, 2024 at 6:00 AM with the headline "SC power bills forecast to soar this summer. Here’s how much more folks will pay."
