VA records coldest early Dec. in 15 years

ANEC warns of higher electric bills due to colder weather

The National Weather Service reports that the Commonwealth experienced its coldest first 15 days of December since 2010. The local region experienced temperatures as much as 9 to 10 degrees colder than what is typical for this time of year.

Extended periods of colder weather often lead to increased electricity use, as heating systems must run longer and more frequently to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, even if your thermostat setting stays the same. Similar to peak summer conditions, extreme cold places additional demand on home energy systems compared to milder weather.

As a result, A&N Electric Cooperative members may see higher energy usage reflected on their January electric bills. 

“Extreme cold means heating systems must work harder to keep our homes warm, leading to increased energy usage and higher bills for service,” Lori Shreaves, A&N’s Director of Member Services said. “In addition to following our recommended energy conservation tips, members should contact us for alternative payment solutions, such as budget billing or payment assistance options.”

Co-op members can monitor their daily and monthly energy use with SmartHub.

Also, making some of these changes can help members take better control over their energy costs this winter:

• Set your thermostat to the coolest comfortable temperature to save on heating costs. If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to adjust the temperature when you go to bed, leave your home for the day, or go on vacation.
• Take advantage of daylight. Allow the sun to brighten your home instead of turning on the lights. Keep shades and curtains open during the day on the south side of your home so your heater doesn’t have to work as hard to warm the space. 
• Lower your water heater’s maximum temperature to around 120 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Use space heaters sparingly. Use them only in small, occupied areas for short periods of time.

A&N Electric Cooperative also offers free energy assessments to its members to help pinpoint opportunities to lower energy consumption and detect issues that may be increasing usage.

In addition, co-op members can influence the demand portion of their bill by managing when electricity is used. Because demand measures how much total electricity is being used at a single point in time, one of the most effective ways to control this is to avoid running large appliances at the same time.

Members struggling to pay their electric bill this winter are encouraged to contact their county Department of Social Services office and apply for Members Helping Members assistance. Members who wish to give back this season can also support Members Helping Members, a nonprofit that assists local families and individuals with paying their electric service bills, by calling 787-9750 or by filling out the Members Helping Members contribution form at anec.com.