If you’re a Duke Energy customer, your piggy bank might see a little more coin this summer.

According to recent press release, customers of Duke Energy are likely in for a treat this summer! Experts say that based on several different factors, the electric power company’s customer’s bills will be 3% – 4% lower compared to 2016’s summer months.

President of Duke Energy Ohio and Kentucky had the following to say about the good news: “We experienced warmer-than-normal weather last summer. As a result, our customers used more electricity to cool their homes. This summer, we’re forecasting temperatures that are closer to normal. That means our customers, on average, should see their electricity use and charges drop compared to one year ago.”

About Duke Energy

One of the largest energy holding companies in America, Duke energy has about 850,000 customers in all different sectors. They also provide natural gas related services to around 529,000 consumers. With a services area of 3,000 square miles, Duke Energy’s services span across six states.

What the Experts Say

Weather experts have indicated that this summer (2017) is going to be several degrees cooler compared to last summer (2016). In fact, the month of June gave us temperatures that were slightly lower than normal. July on the other hand, is expected to reach average temperatures, while August is predicted to be a minimum of one degree cooler compared to previous years.

Based on the press release, in 2016: “June was 2.2 degrees warmer than normal, July was 1.1 degrees warmer than normal, and August was 3.5 degrees warmer than normal.”

What this means for 2017 is that on average, the temperature between June to August will be approximately 2.5 degrees cooler compared to 2016.

Consumers Taking Control

Now, more than ever, energy consumers are taking advantage of the many different tips and tricks they can use to reduce their energy consumption and increase their energy efficiency.

To give consumers the information they need, and the power to change their energy consumption, Duke Energy offers several tools and tips including:

  • Set air conditioners to 78 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
  • Clean air filters every month.
  • Cook outside on the BBQ to keep the house cool.
  • Shut off all lights when leaving a room.
  • Ensure all air leaks are sealed.
  • Keep the doors to the house closed.

There are, of course, many other tips and tricks consumers can use to keep their energy consumption low and efficient. Contacting your energy representative for more information (even if you aren’t a Duke Energy customer) will help you keep your household cool during warmer seasons, without breaking the bank.

Summer 2016 versus Summer 2017

Overall, the average Duke customer should expect to see a summer savings of $3 – $5 on each electricity bill during the months of June, July and August 2017.

If we compare the fact that summer of 2017 is going to be cooler compared to the summer of 2016, it means Duke Energy’s consumers will use less air conditioning. This will automatically decrease the amount of electricity consumed from June to August. When a consumer decreases their electricity consumption, this also decreases the total amount they will need to pay at the end of the month.

In addition, the tips and tools Duke energy provides to its consumers (see section above), helps to increase energy efficiency. This means that the energy used by a consumer goes farther. Therefore, if a consumer is vigilant and cleans their air conditioner filters, or turns off lights in unused rooms, they will likely see those savings on their energy bill.