NOVATO, Calif. (KGO) — Ask anyone, and they’ll tell you it’s been cold in the Bay Area this month. Energy customers may be getting a shock when they open their PG&E bill.
“It’s frigid, very cold, I don’t remember it being this cold before,” said Yolanda Siegmueller.
It’s been gloomy and downright cold in the Bay Area with little relief in sight.
Brace yourself when you open that PG&E bill.
“I think it’s close to $400 this month,” said Claas Siegmueller.
MORE: Why is it so cold? Here’s a look at ‘radiation fog’ and how it’s contributing to the December chill
A common winter phenomenon called radiation fog is contributing to below-average December temperatures in the Bay Area.
“We know it’s been a cold season; whenever we have cold snaps, customers use their heat more, their houses are cold,” said Megan McFarland from PG&E.
PG&E bills in December are estimated to spike higher than this time last year. The price of natural gas is rising nationally. The utility says that lowering your thermostat is more energy efficient than cranking up your gas fireplace if you have one, which can be expensive.
“One thing you can do is set your thermostat to a lower rate; every degree you lower, you save 1% on your energy bill, which can help,” McFarland said.
For those who qualify, PG&E offers several programs, like the Family Electric Rate Assistance Program, which provides monthly discounts on gas and electricity.
“I think people started turning on their heating sooner than last year, I know I did,” said Jane Elias from Bay Area Regional Energy Network.
The Bay Area Regional Energy Network is also watching the weather. It offers some short and long-term fixes for staying cozy at home.
“You can seal drafts around windows and doors with weatherstripping, replacing filters on heaters,” Elias added.
The agency also offers the Ease program, which helps fund improvements for low and moderate-income homeowners who qualify.
“We’ll see if you’re eligible and send an energy expert to your home at no cost to see what energy upgrades you’re eligible for,” Elias said.
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