We are sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but Pacific Gas and Electric recently announced that your energy bill may increase by as much as 18% in 2023 (source).
The increased revenues from the rate hike are said to be needed to improve the utility’s infrastructure. The funds are also required for additional wildfire safety measures. However, other reports cite that the price increase was caused by the drought, which reduced the amount of cheaper hydroelectric power.
Regardless of the reason for the expected rate hike, the average consumer should expect to pay an extra $31.41 a month – with additional price hikes expected in years to come.
How to Prepare for Higher Energy Bills
You know that higher energy bills are on the horizon, so it is time to prepare for those rate increases. Here are some things that California and Nevada homeowners can do now to lower their energy usage.
Install solar panels on your home.
You’ve been thinking about installing solar panels on your home for years. This is the time to do it. Solar panel systems can reduce your dependence on fossil fuels and coal. Additionally, you may qualify for a tax credit by using solar to help offset the cost of the equipment and installation.
Purchase energy-efficient doors and windows.
Another way to combat higher natural gas prices and increased electricity rates is to purchase energy-efficient doors and windows for your home. You’ll be amazed at how much your usage will drop when you install double or triple-paned windows in your home. Plus, you’ll enjoy the added security and improved curb appeal from this home improvement project.
“Coat” instead of paint your home.
Another way to prepare for higher utility bills is to install TEXCOTE COOLWALL or REFLECT-TEC products. These exciting products are designed to reflect solar heat, which leads to lower exterior and kitchen and bath temperatures. An independent government study showed that the TEXCOTE COOLWALL SUPERCOTE™ coatings could reduce a home’s cooling costs by as much as 21.9 percent.
Make sure you have the appropriate amount of insulation.
How confident are you that your home has an appropriate amount of insulation? One relatively inexpensive way to lower electric bills for your Northern California or Nevada home is to improve the insulation in your home’s attic space.
Other Benefits of Reducing Your Home’s Energy Usage
Perhaps you aren’t concerned with rate hikes. Instead, maybe you wish to do your part to preserve your state’s natural beauty by using a clean energy supply, such as solar energy.
You may also like being less dependent on the electrical grid, especially if you have experienced rolling blackouts in the past.
Contact Quality First Home Improvement To Learn How To Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
Are you ready to learn how to reduce your energy usage? Then, contact Quality First Home Improvement. We are prepared to help Nevada and California residents make their homes as energy-efficient as possible to combat the increased energy prices that are soon to come.
Quality First is a TRIPLE DIAMOND AWARD WINNING and GAF Presidential Level Roofer. Using GAF products on your roof will enable you to save on energy use and lower your monthly bills. Ask about the Golden Pledge Warranty we offer to our roofing customers!
However, if you are serious about reducing your energy consumption, you should also consider upgrading your windows with Amish-built ProVia Windows. These high-quality windows will help you save money, but they also give homeowners the added comfort and security that everyone associates with “home.”
