Raise the thermostat, lower your electric bill, says Florida power companies

OUC approves rate cut

ORLANDO, Fla. – Soon, some will see a lower power bill.

The Orlando Utilities Commission approved a 5% cut to customers’ electric bills starting in July.

OUC said the average customer could save $7/per month, based on 1000 kilowatt of usage.

During a Thursday news conference, the commission announced the change is part of a plan to help alleviate energy costs for customers.

There are several other ways to lower your bill yourself.

FPL spokeswoman Francine Freitas said cooling your home during the summer can take up to 50% of your energy bill.

Raising your thermostat to at least 75 degrees when you’re away from home could save you some money.

“For each degree you’re able to keep it up above 75, you’re gonna see a 3-5% increase in your total monthly cooling cost,” said Freitas.

Another good tip, do not use your fan to cool your home. Freitas said it’s good at keeping your body cool, but that’s it.

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