From the CEO's Desk: By Doug Tracy

Though we’re approaching the end of summer, in Missouri, September can still be one of the warmest months of the year, and that means air conditioners across our area work overtime to keep homes comfortable. During periods of extreme heat, many members may see their electric bills increase and wonder what is driving the higher cost.

At Cuivre River Electric Cooperative (CREC), we believe understanding your electric bill is the first step toward managing your energy use and finding ways to save. While the total amount due may look like a single number, your bill reflects several factors, including how much electricity you use, weather patterns, and the steps you take to make your home more efficient.

So, where should you start? The biggest place to look is your energy use. Electricity is measured in kilowatt-hours, or kWhs. The more energy your household consumes, the higher your bill will be. This time of year, air conditioning is typically the biggest driver of increased energy use. When temperatures climb into the 90s or higher, cooling systems run longer and more often, using much more electricity than they do during milder weather.

Your thermostat is one of the best places to make a meaningful change. The weather has a major impact on energy use for heating and cooling, and the closer you can keep your indoor temperature to the outdoor temperature, the more you can save. Of course, you still want to keep your home safe and comfortable, but adjusting the thermostat up a few degrees in summer can help lower energy costs. When looking for ways to save, remember that “off” is the most efficient setting. Turning off lights is a simple habit that still makes a difference. If you haven’t already, switch to energy-saving LED lightbulbs, which use less electricity and last longer.

Electronics are another place to look for savings. Computers, gaming systems, and other devices can continue using energy even when they are in sleep mode or turned off. The higher the wattage and the longer a device stays on, the more energy it uses. Smart power strips can help by cutting power to devices that are not in use.

Routine maintenance can also improve efficiency. Checking and replacing heating and cooling system filters is an easy way to help your system operate properly. Scheduling annual service with a professional can also maximize efficiency and help extend the life of your system. Understanding your energy use and making small adjustments like these can help you take more control of your monthly bill. Start by reviewing your kWh use, choose one or two energy-saving steps to try, and check your next bill to see how your efforts are paying off.

At CREC, our mission is to provide safe, reliable, and affordable electricity while being transparent about the factors that impact energy costs. We know every dollar matters, and we are committed to making smart investments that keep the lights on and support the communities we serve.

If you ever have questions about your electric bill or co-op programs designed to help you save, please reach out. We’re here to help you make informed decisions that work for your home and family.