Seasonal Bill Fluctuations
Seasonal Bill Fluctuations
Energy Costs During Heating and Cooling Seasons
During the summer and winter, your heating and cooling systems work overtime to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, which naturally drives up energy use. However, fluctuations in your energy bill during extreme weather months aren’t just about increased consumption — there’s more to the story.
To truly understand why your bill fluctuates, it’s important to consider factors like supply pricing and other key components of your energy costs:
- Energy Supply Costs: The price of energy depends on supply and demand — when more people need energy at the same time, the price to purchase units of energy often increases. Central Hudson purchases electricity and gas, at market prices, on behalf of its customers. The company charges customers the same price it pays and does not profit from these charges.To view monthly supply prices, click here.
- The costs of delivering energy to your home depends on the total amount of energy you use, measured in kWh (for electricity) and Ccf (for gas). Delivery charges may change from month to month, depending on how much energy you consume — the more energy you use the higher the delivery charge will be.* These fixed delivery rates are charged per kWh and Ccf, and are approved by the Public Service Commission. For a detailed breakdown of what is included in delivery costs, click here.
- Taxes: These are government-imposed charges added to your bill.
To keep costs as low as possible, it’s a good idea to make your home more energy-efficient during the shoulder months of spring and fall—before extreme temperatures hit. Take a look at our energy efficiency resources for some actionable steps.
*Some billing periods are longer or shorter than others, depending on the billing cycle. Your bill may be higher than usual if there are more days than average in the cycle.
Energy Efficiency Resources
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Energy-Saving Tips Booklet |
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Energy-Saving Blog |
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Shop Local for Reduced Prices on DIY Weatherization Products |
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Financing, Income-Eligible Programs and Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency Upgrades |
Bill Payment Options
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