Fuel prices, high heat raising local electric bills

The record June heat and increased fuel costs are combining to raise electric bills this summer.

West Kentucky Rural Electric said that the increased demand for electricity due to the heat, combined with the high cost of fuel to generate the electricity are going to result in higher electric bills over the summer.

WKRECC President and CEO David Smart said he hopes the increases are temporary.

“This increase is driven by higher production costs. If those costs go down, the fuel charge will go down as well,” said Smart. "We understand these are difficult times and will work with our members on a case-by-case basis to help them manage their bills.”

Smart said that connections can be made between members and groups like West Kentucky Allied Services for assistance or to extend payment arrangements. Free energy audits are also being offered to help customers find ways to save energy.


WKRECC, which serves Graves, Marshall, Calloway, and Carlisle counties, said the best way to lower bills is to reduce usage, and they offer these tips:

•    Set your thermostat at the highest comfortable temperature. The smaller the temperature difference         between your home and outdoors, the lower your cooling costs will be.

•    Keep blinds, shades and curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day to prevent sunlight from                  heating your home.

•    Stoves and ovens can raise a kitchen’s temperature as much as 10 degrees. Use an outdoor grill or                 microwave as much as possible to keep the temperature down.

•    Wash clothes in cold water and use a high spin cycle to cut drying time. 

•    Turn off any unnecessary lights. 

•    Change the filter on your HVAC system regularly and have it serviced annually.

•    Run ceiling fans counterclockwise, forcing air to move straight down. Even mild air movement can                      make a room feel three to four degrees cooler.

•    Lower your water heater temperature to 120 degrees. 

If you have questions, WKRECC said to give them a call at 1-877-495-7322 or go online to wkrecc.com.