Braley Dodson and Jane Chacko
2 days ago
NEW HAVEN, Connecticut (WTNH) — The average home could see up to a $56 reduction in their electric bill from Eversource starting in July, according to an announcement from the company Wednesday.
Eversource has submitted a new standard service rate to the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Commission, stating that the rate for residential customers will change from 24.17 cents per kWh to 13.82 cents.
That rate is still higher than last summer, when it was set at 12.19 cents per kWh. Eversource attributes the annual increase to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and global demand.
In January, the price increase sent the average bill up by $80 per month.
“Eversource does not make a profit on the cost of electricity,” the company said in a written statement. “The company only charges customers what the generator pays for to produce power, and there is no additional price.”
Eversource also applied to change the delivery fee from 0.11751 cents per kWh to $0.14107 per kWh, which is an increase of $16 for the average customer. Eversource said the increase was due to the expiration of a $12 credit that took effect in January. Overall, she said, the average home consumption of 700 kWh each month would still see a 22% drop, or $56.
It’s important to remember that, on average, Connecticut customers use 35% more electricity during the summer months with air conditioners, fans and other appliances running overtime to keep things cool inside, said Steve Sullivan, president of electric Eversource. That’s why we continue to urge everyone to take advantage of our many energy efficiency and propulsion programs now – before the hot weather hits.”
Eversource changes rates twice annually, with the rates going into effect on January 1 and July 1 each year. In his announcement on Wednesday, he warned that prices were likely to rise again starting next year.
“The energy market and international factors continue to influence the cost of natural gas and Connecticut customers continue to feel those effects,” Sullivan said in the announcement. “This is a good time to reflect on your energy use and plan for the potential increases we continue to see. We will continue to let customers know about price trends so they have the best information available and can make the best decisions regarding their energy use and costs.”
Customers were keen on a break in their bills.
“It could be geared towards food, or even a little bit for the weekend a little longer, maybe on the weekend,” said Berlin resident Jan Kozlowski. “Get out a little more,”
Others said it wouldn’t make much difference.
“Fifty-six bucks, I think I could put that in my gas tank, but it’s not much of a help,” said Meridian’s Lamar Terrell. “But, I mean, you try to take all you can.”
Eversource provided the following tips on how to keep energy consumption low this summer:
- Keep the air conditioners as warm as comfort allows. For each higher degree on the thermostat, the air conditioner will use 1-3% less electricity.
- Do not block air flow. Keep ventilation openings clear of obstructions such as furniture, drapes, and carpeting.
- Run major appliances during the cooler parts of the day. Energy is saved by using appliances such as washing machines and dryers in the early morning or late evening when there is also less demand on the electrical system.
- Close the blinds when it’s hot to prevent unwanted heat from entering the house through the windows. The use of curtains, shades, and drapes can lower indoor temperatures by up to 20 degrees.
- Switch to ENERGY STAR certified LED lights. Energy efficient bulbs run cooler and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs.
The video below aired on the newscast at 10 p.m. on May 17, 2023.
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