SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) - A decline in electricity demand due to milder weather is expected to offset higher retail power prices this summer.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration says most households should see lower electric bills.
In a new forecast, the Administration says the average residential electric bill for the upcoming cooling season is expected to be $410 which is 2.7% lower than last summer. The summer cooling season runs from June through August.
Electricity prices are expected to rise 2.4% on average nationwide higher in all regions of the country except in the New England states.
But consumers should see lower bills because they're expected to use about 5% less electricity as temperatures won't be as hot as last summer based on extended, government weather forecasts.
The Administration does say, however, actual temperatures can vary significantly from initial forecasts.
Almost 9 out of every 10 households in the United States use some form of air conditioning.
