Ready for Higher Summer Utility Bills? How to Save

Summer in Shreveport already asks a lot from an air conditioner. Now, a new national energy report suggests families may need to prepare for higher cooling bills, too.

According to reporting, the National Energy Assistance Directors Association projects that average summer cooling costs could rise again this year. The group says the average electricity cost to cool homes from June through September could reach $778, with summer cooling costs expected to increase by about 8.5%.

For Shreveport families, that number hits a little differently. This is not a place where air conditioning is a luxury. Around here, it is part of daily survival from late spring into early fall.

Why Shreveport Feels This More Than Some Places

The National Weather Service in Shreveport says the area averages about 87 days a year above 90 degrees, along with about 32 days above 95 degrees. That means local homes are not just running the AC during a short heat wave. Many systems are working hard for months.

READ MORE: Bossier Officials Decide Not to Open City Pools this Summer

That matters because the cost of cooling a home is tied to two things: how much electricity costs and how much electricity your house needs. When temperatures climb, older homes, weak insulation, dirty filters, and aging AC units can all make the bill worse.

Help Is Available, But It May Not Last

Louisiana’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, better known as LIHEAP, can help eligible households with heating and cooling bills. The Louisiana Housing Corporation says the program may provide bill payment assistance, crisis help, and even heating or cooling equipment repair or replacement in some cases.

Get our free mobile app

SWEPCO has also encouraged eligible Louisiana customers to look into LIHEAP before funds run out. SWEPCO President Brett Mattison said, “LIHEAP is a great help to our customers,” adding that customers should learn more about programs that help manage seasonal bill spikes.

Simple Moves to Save Money Before The Worst Heat Arrives

SWEPCO recommends setting thermostats higher when possible, changing air filters, closing blinds during sunny parts of the day, using fans only in occupied rooms, and avoiding ovens and dryers during the hottest hours.

None of that makes a Shreveport summer cool. It can, however, help keep the AC from fighting a losing battle all day.

For local families already stretching groceries, gas, insurance, and utility bills, this summer’s electric bill may be one more reason to plan early.