COLUMBIA, S.C. — Home cooling costs in South Carolina are expected to hit its highest rate in the past 12 years.
The National Energy Assistance Directors Association (NEADA) and the Center for Energy Poverty and Climate forecasts that home electricity bills from June through September will average at a total cost of $842 — a projected 6.2% increase from last year's recorded average.
South Carolina’s predicted cost is also $58 higher than the projected national average.
Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas and Oklahoma are projected to have the highest average of the summer, at $996. Whereas, California, Alaska, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington are forecasted to have an average electricity bill of $663.
Officials report the rise in cost is because of several factors.
“We predict that prices will be this high for two reasons: first, the cost of electricity is rising faster than average rate of inflation, and second, temperatures are continuing to increase, reflecting the continuing impact of climate change and requiring additional energy to cool indoor spaces,” the report reads.
The National Weather Service is expecting a 40-50% chance for warmer-than-normal temperatures in the Southeastern region of the United States from June through August.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, extreme heat is the leading weather-related killer in the United States. Experts also believe that many heat-related deaths are under-counted because the symptoms can take various forms, including respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, stroke, etc.
“Between rising prices, lower access to air conditioning, and inadequate state and federal programs to pay bills and prevent shutoffs, millions of low-income families will be at risk for illness or death this summer caused by extreme heat,” the report added.
The U.S. Department of Energy shares several tips each year to help residents save money on their electricity bills each spring and summer.
Install window coverings to keep heat out
Keep your house at a warmer than normal temperature when away
Avoid setting thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you first turn on the AC
Turn off ceiling fans when you leave the room
Schedule regular maintenance for your cooling equipment
Vacuum air intake vents regularly to remove buildup
Consider cooler lighting options
