OuTRaGeOuS Energy Bill!!!?

Question

Recently received my energy bill and freaked out when i saw that it was double than what we normally pay.
And the crazy thing is that we have actually been conserving so much more these past couple of weeks.
Called our energy supplier: Progress energy, and they were no help.
What could be wrong? Is it possible that the digital meter is wrong or something else broken, or what about energy theft? Please help. $242.00 energy bill is OUTRAGEOUS, when the average is only like $120 for us.
thank you...

Answer 1

Look at your energy usage as compared with the same month the previous year. It' s on most utility bills or your electric co. can look it up for you. It should be close to the same kw hours, if weather conditions are similar to last year's. If so, then it's probably just a rate increase and not much you can do about it. You could also try reading your meter yourself to see if it is consistent with what is reported on your bill. If no errors are found, you might want to consider getting levelized billing, if it is available in your area. It makes it hard to track how much you are being charged, but it can help level out the cold winter and hot summer bills. The days of cheap energy are over, so other than conservation, there is not much else you can do.

Answer 2

In the St. Louis area there are people dealing with similar situations... AmerenUE the provider in the area sent out bills to the Illinois customers that were over 10 times the regular rate... The reason was a cap on rates expired and Ameren didn't miss a minute Getting their paws on the money tree. The suggestion that I will offer to you is look into renewable energy. (solar, wind) it costs quite a bit to start but once you are tied into a system the benefits are well worth the upfront cost... plus currently you can recieve up to 2000 back in tax deductions at the end of the year... A paultry sum I know but what would can you expect from the Feds? Anyway heres a link on Solar... Good luck

http://www.mrsolar.com

Answer 3

You didn't say where you live. However January has been the coldest month here (Ky) when temp go down prices go up. All things are possible. I would insist that the eclectic company send someone out to check the meter and to see if someone has tapped in to your power supply. Here we have "wave 3 listens. A news's show that will investigate problems for you. When no one else will help.
Remember to check the dates on your bill. After all it is usually a month behind. At the very least the cut off date is going to be a week or two ago.

Good luck.