BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — While higher bills can be expected during summer heat waves, Bowling Green Municipal Utilities and Warren RECC customers should be aware of another factor affecting their bills this summer. July 1, the TVA’s Fuel Cost Adjustment will nearly double, costing roughly 2 cents per kilowatt-hour more than last July.
Families who use 1,000 kilowatts per month will see an average increase of $20 compared to July of last year. If you consume more than average amounts of energy, the increase will be higher; if you consume less than average, the increase will be less.
TVA Fuel Cost refers to the cost of the fuels that TVA uses to generate electricity. Those fuels include the fuels that power natural gas, nuclear and coal plants that generate electricity. TVA uses the FCA to help manage fluctuations in the cost of those fuels. The FCA does not refer to fuels like gasoline or diesel that power our fleets of vehicles.
The FCA has remained steady for several years, but with the global supply chain and inflation issues, the FCA has climbed in recent months. FCA charges are determined by TVA monthly, and all money collected for the FCA is paid directly to TVA.
With the increased FCA and the summer’s record temperatures, consumers are encouraged to conserve energy as much as possible to help control costs. The best way to conserve energy is to raise your thermostat, especially during the hottest hours of the day. Other energy-saving tips include:
- Turn off lights and unplug unnecessary electrical appliances.
- Keep curtains and blinds closed.
- Wash full loads of laundry and dishes.
- Caulk air leaks around windows and doors.
- Run ceiling fans counterclockwise to circulate air.
For those who may need help paying their electric bill, financial assistance is available. Call 2-1-1 for information about financial assistance in your community.
In addition, both BGMU and Warren RECC provide financial assistance through internal programs. For BGMU customers, contact the Bowling Green-Warren County Welfare Center for more information about assistance available through their Customer Assistance Program.
For Warren RECC members, please visit your local Community Action Agency to learn more about assistance available through their Operation Warm Hearts program. To find a Community Action office near you, visit www.capky.org.
