Experiencing a higher utility bill? Here are strategies to save
WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — Several power customers in the DMV report seeing higher utility bills recently without major usage adjustments, as the two leading public utility providers point the finger at recent cold snaps.
Aaron Ruby, a spokesperson for Dominion Energy told DC News Now, “most people assume they’re using the same amount of electricity as long as they keep the thermostat set at the same temperature, but that’s not the case. It’s the difference between the outside temperature and the thermostat setting that makes the difference.”
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According to Pepco spokesperson Chuck McDade, the company is “available to help them better understand their bill and ways they can reduce their energy use or access energy assistance if needed.”
In the meantime, consumers have several opportunities to save cash on their utility bill.
Try negotiating what you pay by calling your utility provider, and ask to compare electric costs for similar apartments and homes. Also, consider ‘budget billing — a payment option some utility companies allow consumers to pay the same for electric each month to avoid surprise bill amounts.
Maryland’s officials recommends people with providers who are not their local utility provider to read the fine print of their contracts.
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“Especially if they’re being charged what’s called a ‘variable rate’ and that’s a rate that may change from month to month,” said David Lapp from the Maryland Office of People’s Counsel. “You’ve got to be very careful when you’re shopping, but if you’re very careful and know what you’re doing, perhaps you can find opportunities.”
State governments offering utility assistance and weatherization tools are below:
Maryland: The Office of Home Energy Programs
Virginia: The Department of Social Services
Consumers who dispute a bill can also request a meter reading and accuracy test. Customers can also file a complaint with state utility commissions.
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