San Antonio residents are facing financial hardship following unexpectedly high energy bills after Winter Storm Fern, while CPS Energy is highlighting available assistance programs and conservation strategies.
Rising Bills Spark Concern
One CPS Energy customer expressed frustration after receiving a bill exceeding $300, stating she felt compelled to pay the full amount to avoid service disconnection. The woman, who wished to remain anonymous, described living paycheck to paycheck and struggling to save despite reports of a strong economy.
CPS Energy acknowledges increased energy usage during colder temperatures. Milady Nazir of CPS Energy stated that higher energy use is typical during periods of cold weather, such as those experienced during Winter Storm Fern.
Conservation and Assistance Programs
Nazir emphasized the importance of conservation, suggesting customers set their thermostats to 68 degrees during peak conservation hours. Beyond immediate conservation efforts, CPS Energy offers a range of support programs, including a fixed payment plan designed to eliminate unexpected bill amounts.
Additional programs include affordability discounts, waivers for seniors and military personnel, and the Casa Verde program, which assists customers with home weatherization. These services are accessible through CPS Energy service centers, by phone, or online.
Customers can also track their energy usage daily through the “My Energy” portal, providing greater transparency and potentially helping to avoid bill shock.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the high bills?
According to CPS Energy, higher energy use during colder temperatures, such as those experienced during Winter Storm Fern, contributed to increased bills.
What conservation steps can customers take?
CPS Energy recommends conserving energy between 6 a.m. And 10:00 a.m. And setting thermostats to 68 degrees during those hours.
What assistance programs are available?
CPS Energy offers a fixed payment plan, affordability discounts, senior and military waivers, and the Casa Verde weatherization program.
As winter weather patterns continue, will these programs be sufficient to address the financial strain experienced by San Antonio residents?
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