Warmer Temperatures do not Mean Lower Energy Costs

March 1, 2023 | Blog

Did January feel warmer than usual? Maybe because it was. According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the average U.S. temperature in January 2023 was 35.2 degrees, resulting in the sixth warmest January on record. The average U.S. temperature in January 2022 was 31 degrees. Based on temperature alone, one would expect the average U.S. consumer to spend less on energy in January 2023 compared to January 2022; however, electricity costs increased by over 14% in 2022, while natural gas prices experienced massive volatility during 2022 before returning to the average price in December.

For energy utilities who subscribe to Apogee’s online energy analysis tool, Energy Advisor, the above factors contributed to customers increasing their use of the resource by more than 16% during January 2023 as compared to January 2022. Energy Advisor is a self-service application that results in reduced customer calls, assists with a first-call resolution, and promotes utility programs. Most customers prefer to self-serve online when that option is available. Surveys show 90% of utility customers using Apogee applications reported not needing to contact the utility regarding a high energy bill.

Customers seek assistance understanding their energy costs, and utilities should provide helpful and accurate tools to meet these needs.