Help is on the way for high Entergy bills, $150 credit for qualified Louisiana customers
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With high temperatures dominating the summer months in Northeast Louisiana leading to increased electricity bills, help is on the way.
The company announced Thursday a one-time $150 bill credit through United Way.
The company had originally announced the program Tuesday for qualifying customers in Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, Plaquemines, Tangipahoa, St. Tammany and Washington parishes, but now the program is now going statewide.
Although the incentive is good, Louisiana Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell said it isn't enough.
"I'm glad that people are getting some help because bills are extremely, extremely high," Campbell said. "It's very hot weather but I did not vote for the extra charge putting on the bill that was a 4-1 vote. I voted against it."
To qualify, customers must have a total household income of up to 250% of the federal poverty level, which equates to $69,000 for a family of four. Customers are encouraged to visit entergy.com/answers for the most up-to-date information on bill assistance. In addition, application information will be available by calling the United Way.
Hot weather tips: Here's how to beat the Northeast Louisiana heat this summer
From USA TODAY: 10 ways to save on utility bills
Cooling and heating costs make up about 55% of an average customer's electric bill, according to Entergy.
In June, Entergy raised rates due to rising natural gas costs and storm recovery expenses. The average customer saw increases up of to $9 to $10 per month.
"I'm disappointed with Entergy's progress," Campbell said. "I think their bills are too high and I'm doing everything I can to reduce them. I do appreciate this $150, it'll help, but you do still have a lot of people who are hurting in a dangerous time of the year when it's 100 degrees and people have to have electricity to stay cool, especially elderly people."
The program was announced to roll out starting Aug. 17.
In the meantime, Entergy has released a list of ways to save energy during the heat of summer.
Get your A/C inspected to make sure your system is leak-free and operating as efficiently as possible. Don't get about air filters; some units require monthly cleaning or replacing.
Set your thermostat to 78 degrees or the highest comfortable temperatures. Every degree lower than 78 can raise your bill as much as 3%. If you crank down the A/C to a cooler 78 degrees, you've already increased your bill by 18%.
Buy a programmable thermostat. As energy uses rises, costs also rise. If you spend most of your day outside of the house, set your thermostat to automatically shut off or raise the A/C setting when you're away.
Use fans to cool off, but remember – fans cool people, not rooms. Ceiling fans, box fans and oscillating fans use very little electricity and circulate the air, which helps you feel several degrees coolers. To save more energy, be sure to turn them off when you leave room.
Close blinds, shades and curtains to keep the sun out and the cool air in. Also, close A/C vent in rooms that are not in use.
Seal cracks and holes around doors, windows and ductwork. Inexpensive weather stripping and caulk will help keep the cold air inside the house and the hot air outdoors.
Monitor your usage. Use the myAdvisor tool on my myentergy.com to learn when you use the most energy. The usage and cost tool can compare your usage history by month, day and hour.
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This article originally appeared on Monroe News-Star: Entergy to offer $150 credit for qualified Louisiana customers
