The average CPS Energy customer’s electric bill may be slightly higher this summer in comparison to summer 2010. From June through September, the average residential electric bill is expected to be $152.28, which is a two percent increase from last summer’s average bill of $148.65.

CPS Energy analysts estimate slightly higher fuel costs are possible this summer.  In addition, although the summer energy forecast is based on a normal summer, San Antonio has already experienced two triple degree days in May. In comparison, seven 100-degree days took place in 2010 with the first one not occurring until August. The National Weather Service is also forecasting a 40 percent chance that temperatures will remain above normal as the drought persists. Hotter weather could lead to greater demand for air conditioning and cooling systems, increasing customer bills.

CPS Energy encourages customers to monitor the weather and become more energy efficient to help keep utility bills as low as possible. Some energy efficiency tips include:

COOLING

• Set the air conditioner thermostat to 78 – 80 degrees when at home.
• Set the thermostat at 82 – 84 degrees when away from home during the day. CPS Energy programmable Peak Saver thermostats are available to customers with central air and heating who agree to the program rules. Customers can change the thermostat’s setting online, if needed.
• Turn off ceiling fans in unoccupied rooms.

LIGHTING

• Switch from incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs).
• Remember to turn off lights in unoccupied rooms.

ELECTRONICS

• After use, unplug phone chargers and electronics such as MP3 devices, video games, etc.
• Turn off appliances and electronics such as TVs, DVD players, and game systems when not in use.

LAUNDRY

• Run full loads instead of partial loads when washing and drying.
•  Use the moisture sensor feature whenever possible to reduce dryer time.

Bill Assistance

Customers in San Antonio and Bexar County can get help paying gas and electric bills through the Residential Energy Assistance Partnership (REAP). For information about qualifications and other REAP details, contact the City of San Antonio’s Department of Community Initiatives at 207-7830 or Bexar County’s Department of Community Investment at 335-6770.

Others can assist those in need by marking the REAP donation box on their CPS Energy bills (online or paper statement) and rounding up to the next dollar amount or adding more to their monthly payment.