Increased Customer Energy Bills - Summer 2022

CU customers are seeing higher than average electric bills this summer.  This is mainly due to the extreme temperatures experienced in our area.

Additionally, there has been an increase in the monthly TVA Fuel Cost Adjustment (FCA). This may be a term many are unfamiliar with, so what is the FCA? In short, it’s the cost of the fuel it takes for TVA to generate power – the uranium, coal, oil and natural gas purchased to run their nuclear, fossil, combined cycle and combustion turbine plants. This is the very reason we request for consumers to conserve energy during extreme weather conditions as it translates into direct savings for you, the customer. Reduced consumption equals reduced costs. This is a 100% pass-through charge to the end consumer.  

TVA and CU work hard to keep rates as low as possible. CU has held their electric rates steady for the past two years and does not have any internal electric rate increases planned through at least June 2023. Additionally, TVA has not had a base rate increase in the past three years. This is a very challenging operating environment for everyone, and we are doing all we can to keep our costs down.

Energy consumption is the biggest factor in electric bill fluctuations, and we want to help customers control their energy usage and costs.  Here are some tips to help reduce consumption and lower your bill:

• Set thermostats at the highest comfortable temperature.  HVAC systems are the biggest user of electricity in homes. Therefore, when the outside temperature is extremely high, air conditioning systems are having to work at maximum capacities to keep up with the inside temperature setting. Every degree helps!
• Change air filters monthly to allow for better airflow
• Close window coverings on the sunny side of your home
• Turn off lights and unplug electronics not in use
• If possible, avoid using ovens, dishwashers, clothes dryers and other appliances that generate heat in your home until later in the evening
• Use grills or microwaves to cook when possible
• Use fans to circulate air

As always, we are here to help and answer any questions you may have.