Winter’s Cold Temperatures Lead to Higher Heating Bills – How HEC Can Help

After a colder-than-average winter season, many Harrisonburg residents are now seeing the impact on their heating bills. With lower-than-usual temperatures, heating systems had to work a lot harder this year to keep homes warm, leading to increased energy use and higher costs.

At Harrisonburg Electric Commission, we understand that these seasonal spikes can be a challenge. That’s why we offer a Budget Plan to help even out your monthly payments. This program spreads your costs more evenly throughout the year, so you can avoid sudden high bills during peak heating and cooling seasons.

There are two types of budget plans available.

Settlement Plan: Each budget year begins with a zero balance. Settlement month, the time at which the amount paid during the previous eleven months is reconciled with actual usage, will be every March. If there is a credit on the account, HEC will issue a refund check. If there is a balance on the account, the customer must pay the balance in full, prior to starting the next budget year. ***The Settlement Plan is only available for selection between February 1st and March 31st.***

Average Plan: Settlement month will occur each year on the month the customer enrolled in the Budget program. Once the amount paid during the previous eleven months has been reconciled with actual usage, any credit or debit on the account will be rolled into the next budget year. A new budget amount, reflecting the debit or credit, will be in effect until the next settlement.

If your winter bill is higher than expected, we encourage you to explore our Budget Plan or take steps to improve energy efficiency in your home. Sealing air leaks, using a programmable thermostat, and maintaining your HVAC system can all help reduce energy use year-round.

For more details on our Budget Billing, visit https://www.harrisonburgelectric.com/resources/payment-options/ or contact our customer service team. For more tips on energy conversation around your home, visit https://www.harrisonburgelectric.com/all-ways-to-go-green/energy-conservation/.