Xcel Energy customers in Texas are seeing lower fuel costs on their monthly electricity bills this summer and can realize even more savings by boosting the energy efficiency of homes and businesses in relatively easy ways.
“Inflation is still a pressing issue for our customers, but we’re finally seeing some relief on the fuel costs that make up a significant percentage of a monthly bill,” said Adrian J. Rodriguez, president, Xcel Energy Texas. “We continue to build cost efficiencies into how we generate and deliver power and remain committed to helping our customers find ways to reduce their bills.”
The cost of natural gas that fuels more than 30% of the region’s power supply has fallen significantly since last summer.
Texas customers will now see their fuel costs decrease as new, lower fuel cost factors go into effect this week, reducing a typical residential bill of 1,000 kilowatthours by approximately $6.35, or 4.1% less.
Customers can achieve further savings by making simple and low-cost efficiency improvements and adopting energy-saving habits. Xcel Energy offers tips to beat the heat and save money at its Energy Saving Tips page at xcelenergy.com, which includes tips such as:
- Using weather stripping to seal doors and windows so cool air can’t escape.
- Raising the thermostat level into the 80s when no one is at home, and then gradually lowering it to around 78 degrees when the house is occupied.
- Investing in a “smart” thermostat that allows customers to program and/or adjust thermostat settings from a mobile device.
- Closing blinds and drapes during the heat of the day to block the heat from sunlight.
- Using fans to circulate air throughout the home, even when the air conditioning is on.
- Opening interior doors to allow cool air to circulate in the house. Or, if there is a part of the house not in use, closing it off to keep the cool air where it is desired.
- Putting off cooking, clothes drying and other chores that create heat inside the home until past 7:00 p.m.
- Shading air conditioning units to boost their efficiency.
Additionally, installing LED bulbs helps stretch savings further because they use 70-90% less energy and last 15 times longer. Xcel Energy has teamed up with select retailers in its Texas service area to provide discounts on certain LED bulbs. Customers can locate these retailers at the company’s Home Lighting page at xcelenergy.com.
Customers can take further steps toward ongoing savings by having their homes tested for air leaks that can make cooling and heating units less efficient and more costly to operate. Area energy efficiency contractors perform the testing for Xcel Energy and make energy-saving improvements free of charge. A list of approved contractors can be accessed on the Energy Efficiency Services page at xcelenergy.com.
Customers having difficulty paying their bills should contact Xcel Energy as soon as possible. Xcel Energy offers payment arrangements on a case-by-case basis, allowing customers to pay over time should they need to.
“These pay arrangements vary according to individual circumstances, but most are from three to six months, said Canda Henry, Amarillo-based senior director in Xcel Energy’s Customer Care group.
“Customers facing loss of income or other hardships that prevent them from making payments can talk with one of our personal account representatives, who can connect them with agencies in their area that offer help with utility bills.”
Personal account representatives will have a listing of appropriate community funds in each town served by Xcel Energy and will help qualified customers apply this funding to outstanding balances.
Additionally, agents have been reaching out to customers who have qualified for energy assistance in the past to ensure they are aware of the resources available to them.
Customers wishing to visit with Xcel Energy about payment arrangements can call 1-800-8954999 Monday through Friday or visit the customer support page at xcelenergy.com to learn about options and programs to help manage bills.