During the chilly months this year, electricity consumption has risen significantly when compared to the previous year.
This year, customers are using approximately 9% more electricity from November 10 to December 10 than during the same timeframe in 2024, according to Nick Alexopulos, a representative from Baltimore Gas and Electric Company.
Alexopulos attributes this increase largely to the colder weather, which has led many people to raise the temperature on their home heating systems. He noted that heating can consume up to 40% of a household’s total energy usage. Therefore, he suggests lowering your thermostat if possible.
“It’s important to set your thermostat to a comfortable level, but remember that lowering it even slightly can reduce the amount of time your heater runs, which in turn lowers your energy consumption and can lead to significant savings,” he explained.
In addition to adjusting your thermostat, Alexopulos shared another useful tip: using your dishwasher. “You might be surprised to learn that running the dishwasher typically uses less energy than washing dishes by hand,” he noted.
Another way to cut down on electricity costs is by fine-tuning your water heater. Alexopulos recommends setting your water heater to a temperature of around 120 degrees Fahrenheit. “If your water heater is set higher than that, it will be working harder than necessary to keep your water hot,” he said.
BGE also advises consumers to take other cost-saving measures, such as sealing doors to keep warm air inside, opening curtains during the day to let in sunlight, and switching to energy-efficient LED light bulbs.
“Ultimately, the more energy you consume, the higher your utility bill will be,” Alexopulos cautioned, especially during the winter and summer months.
