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For Electric Cooperative Members
Energy Efficiency

Stop High Winter Bills Before They Start

Make plans to minimize energy use ahead of cold weather

Last winter brought life-threatening weather extremes to Texas. Much of the state experienced subfreezing temperatures at some point, and many Texans experienced storms that tested our infrastructure and forced outages. Most homes in Co-op Country were affected by the cold, even when the power remained on, and many folks were forced to run their heating systems longer and harder than usual—bringing some unwelcome higher energy bills.

Your electric cooperative recognizes that unusually high bills are concerning. Everyone at your co-op pays a utility bill too, so the need to keep the household budget balanced while keeping your family warm is personal.

Your electric cooperative is guided by the Seven Cooperative Principles, which include Concern for Community. Providing safe and reliable energy for homes and businesses is part of that promise. The co-op is committed to helping you find reasonable solutions for your power dilemmas too. We offer several programs to help members manage their bills and accounts.

But one thing we can’t change, no matter how hard we try, is that colder weather means most folks use more electricity to keep their homes warm. What we can do is let you know that the most important way to prevent a higher-than-expected energy bill is to look for ways to decrease the amount of energy you use.

So prepare now—before another polar vortex settles over Texas—and manage your energy use. Here are some tips that will help you stop high energy bills before they start:

  • Seal any gaps that create drafts in your home, and augment your insulation if needed.
  • Keep an eye on the thermostat and set it as low as comfortably possible. Bundle up with sweaters, socks and slippers while in the house.
  • Keep shades, curtains and blinds closed at night to keep out more of cold air, but open window coverings during the day to bring in the sun’s warming rays.
  • Always turn off lights you don’t need, and avoid using energy-burning electric space heaters if possible.
  • Your co-op can set up an audit of your house to identify your home’s biggest energy users and sources of inefficiency to help you find additional ways to save.

As your friends and neighbors, your co-op’s employees know the importance of working together for the welfare of the community. We want to ensure you’re informed and prepared for every season.