SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS RADIO) – If you've felt like your energy bills have been unusually high in the Bay Area for the past few months, you're not alone.
For more, stream KCBS Radio now.
Don't be surprised if your energy bill is 30% higher this month, which translates to around $80. PG&E is warning customers that they will likely be paying more during chilly winter months.
The price spike is not just here in California. A combination of tighter supply and increased demand has pushed natural gas prices up along the West Coast.
"PG&E customers have used more natural gas than the five year historic average this winter, with November usage up 20% higher, December up 10% higher and January to date about 3% higher," Tamar Sarkissian with PG&E told KCBS Radio.
However, some relief could be in the forecast. Sarkissian said the utility is working with federal and state regulators. "The CPUC is scheduled to vote later this week on issuing the annual April climate credit earlier this year," she said.
There are also a series of steps PG&E customers can take, including setting your water heater to 120 degrees and lowering the thermostat. "You save about 2% of your heating bill for each degree that you lower your thermostat," Sarkissian explained.
The higher prices are expected to remain through March.
DOWNLOAD the Audacy App
SIGN UP and follow KCBS Radio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Related
