Rising Energy Costs

Energy Costs Expected to Rise this Winter

Groton Utilities strives to improve the quality of life for the residents that we serve. We do that by providing the foundational infrastructure necessary for a vibrant and resilient community to thrive. As a non-profit, we pride ourselves on providing electric, water, and sewer utility services at reasonable prices.

This upcoming winter is shaping up to be an expensive one, especially when it comes to energy costs. Home heating oil is exceeding $5.00 a gallon and natural gas prices remain near all-time highs. Electricity costs are rising too. Wholesale electricity prices were up 104% last winter and are expected to remain high this coming heating season.

Groton Utilities is dedicated to minimizing these cost impacts as much as possible, while remaining fiscally responsible. Unfortunately the cost of wholesale energy will very likely exceed the point that Groton Utilities can absorb. This will, most likely, result in an increase to the Purchase Power Adjustment (PPA) and Transmission Cost Adjustment (TCA). We feel it is important that customers know this in advance of the coming months, so that they can plan ahead in anticipation of higher heating costs.

Groton Utilities will continue to be proactive in our communication and we will have more information to follow in the upcoming weeks.

Energy Rates Explained

Now more than ever it is a great time to find ways to conserve energy. Make sure your home is adequately insolated. Check to make sure pipe entry points to your home are caulked and sealed. Keep your thermostat a couple degrees lower than normal and throw on a sweater instead. Use a programmable or smart thermostat to lower temperatures when you are out of the house or asleep. Turn down the temperature on your hot water heater. If you have a hot tub keep the temperature lower between uses. These and many more energy saving tips can be found on our website.

Energy Saving Tips

Additionally, consider taking advantage of our free Home Energy Saving (HES) program. This program is subsidized in part by a State of Connecticut grant and provides a free comprehensive in-home energy assessment service for your dwelling which may include air sealing, ducting testing and sealing, installation of low-flow shower heads and faucet aerators to save water, installation of energy-efficient LED light bulbs as well as incentives for insulation upgrades.