U.S. Cooling Costs Projected to Rise 10.5 Percent This Summer Amid Heat Wave

Much of the U.S. experienced near-record temperatures over the July 4 weekend. Cooling costs are projected to rise 10.5 percent this summer compared with the previous year, according to the National Energy Assistance Directors Association.

The cost of electricity has risen faster than overall inflation over the past few years, the group said. More than 185 million people were under heat alerts on Friday, with temperatures approaching record highs across the Northeast, the National Weather Service reported. , were among those affected.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged residents via social media to set air conditioners at 78 degrees Fahrenheit to ease pressure on the power grid. He also asked them to turn off unused lights and electronic devices and unplug non-essential equipment. The city is maintaining the 78-degree rule in its buildings and dimming lights when possible.

Mark Wolfe, executive director of the National Energy Assistance Directors Association, said there is nothing people can do about the price of electricity but they can manage consumption more efficiently. He recommends raising the thermostat gradually by about one degree every couple of days until reaching no higher than 78 degrees.

For every one degree the cooling temperature is raised, 3 percent can be saved on the electric bill, Wolfe said.

Wolfe added that 78 degrees is the highest setting he recommends and is at the upper end of comfort for most people. He suggested setting the temperature higher when away from home and lowering it upon return. Pulling down window blinds, shades or shutters during the hottest times of day blocks direct sunlight and reduces indoor temperatures, he said.