JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – If your jaw dropped after opening your recent electric bill, you’re not alone.
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As temperatures climb, some JEA customers say their bills are climbing right along with them.
The frustration is real and for many, it doesn’t seem limited to the hottest months of the year.
Customers who spoke with News4JAX, both on and off camera, say costs have been climbing steadily, putting added strain on their budgets throughout the year.
“I have seen it go up and increase over the years. Especially in the last year, for sure,” Mike Jorgensen, a JEA customer, said.
For some, the numbers simply don’t add up.
“I think it’s miscalculated because these months are about $400 right now while it’s being like 90-something degrees outside. Usually, our bill is probably like under $200. So that’s weird. Isn’t that weird? Double,” Lea Sassani said.
The numbers back up what customers are feeling.
JEA data shows average electric consumption was 30 percent higher in June than May, with the average bill rising 17 percent over the same period.
With temperatures climbing, air conditioners work harder and longer, driving energy use higher and pushing bills up along with it.
JEA says there are steps customers can take to help bring costs down:
- Set the thermostat to 78 degrees when home
- Change air filters regularly
- Turn off unused lights and electronics
- Fix water leaks that can quietly drive-up costs
JEA also offers free irrigation assessments, efficiency assessments and helpful efficiency rebates.