MADISON, Wis. — Heating your home during a Wisconsin winter is never cheap, but this year, as temperatures go down, expect that energy bill to go way up.
For the second year in a row, Americans will likely see their winter energy bill go up an average of 35%. Wisconsin is expecting similar numbers, meaning this will be an expensive winter for many homeowners.
Across the nation, first-time applications for low-income home energy assistance are up 60%, as the National Energy Assistance Directors Association forecasts the highest winter heating costs in a decade.
“For many Americans, the cost of home heating will become unaffordable this winter,” NEADA executive director Mark Wolfe said.
With a 17% increase over last year’s energy costs, Wisconsinites that heat with natural gas can expect to see the highest increase of more than 34% this season. If using electric heat, the increase won’t be as drastic, but will still be costly, with an average hike of 7%.
Officials with Wisconsin Public Service said those increases, compared to last winter, equate to about $20-$30 more per month. They explained that heightened demand and the conflict in Ukraine are the two main factors causing this increase.
“Russia’s invasion into Ukraine has caused some European countries to limit or stop using natural gas that’s exported by Russia,” said Matt Cullen with WPS. “That has also caused worldwide natural gas prices to rise.”
The good news is, there are a few ways to prepare for those higher heating costs this winter. That includes getting furnaces inspected, cleaning out furnace filters, and making sure the house is properly sealed and insulated.
“Look around your home to see if there are any gaps or cracks around your windows or your doors, and use caulk or weather stripping to seal those up,” Cullen said. “That will keep the warm air inside your house and prevent it from leaking outside and causing your furnace to run more often.”
Finally, if you expect to have trouble paying your bill in full each month, Cullen suggested reaching out to your energy provider to see if payment plans are available. There are also several assistance programs across Wisconsin that can help households in need this winter. Just click or tap here for more information.
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