Energy bill pressure is rising as a late-June heat wave pushes cooling demand higher across large parts of the United States. National Grid is urging customers to reduce avoidable electricity use, while national forecasts show summer residential electric costs climbing again in 2026 after several years of sharp increases.
Key Takeaways
- Average summer residential electric utility costs are forecast to rise 10.5 percent in 2026, from $717 in 2025 to about $792.
- National Grid is advising customers to clean air filters, seal window air conditioners, adjust thermostats and shift some appliance use away from peak heat hours.
- The National Weather Service warned of dangerous, record-breaking heat across much of the central and eastern United States during the final days of June.
- Electricity prices usually rise in summer because demand increases and more costly generation sources may be needed to meet peak load.
- National Grid has also pointed customers toward bill-management tools, usage alerts and assistance programs during the heat period.
Energy bill concerns are increasing as households across the United States enter one of the most expensive periods of the year for electricity use.
The National Energy Assistance Directors Association and the Center for Energy Poverty and Climate projected in June 2026 that average summer residential electric utility expenditures would rise 10.5 percent this year. The groups estimated average costs would increase from $717 in 2025 to about $792 in 2026.
The same forecast said average summer cooling costs have increased more than 39 percent since 2020. That increase places the current heat wave in a broader affordability context for households that already face higher utility, food, rent and insurance expenses.
The pressure also fits a wider pattern in U.S. energy prices, where household and business costs remain closely tied to inflation readings, fuel markets and seasonal demand.
The National Weather Service said dangerous, record-breaking heat was expected across much of the central and eastern United States during the final week of June. Heat index values were forecast to top 100 degrees in some areas, with heat expected to continue across the eastern U.S. through the Independence Day holiday weekend.
How Is National Grid Telling Customers to Cut an Energy Bill?
National Grid is urging customers to take practical steps that can reduce unnecessary electricity use during extreme heat.
The company’s public guidance focuses on cooling systems, airflow, lighting and appliance timing. National Grid advises customers to replace or clean dirty air filters because restricted airflow can make air conditioning systems work harder. It also recommends vacuuming air intake vents and moving furniture, toys or other items that may block air circulation.
Window air conditioners are another focus. National Grid advises customers to check seals around window units because damaged or loose seals can allow cool air to escape and warm air to enter. That can cause the unit to run longer than needed.
Lighting also matters during hot weather. National Grid has pointed to U.S. Department of Energy guidance that LED bulbs use at least 75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs and last much longer. Replacing older bulbs can reduce electricity use and may also reduce indoor heat from lighting.
Thermostats, Filters and Peak-Hour Use
National Grid’s guidance also emphasizes thermostat settings. The company advises customers to set the thermostat at a steady temperature and avoid lowering it more than necessary. During heat waves, even small thermostat adjustments can affect how long cooling systems run.
In guidance shared during the current heat period, National Grid cited Cornell Cooperative Extension information that households can save 3 percent to 5 percent on summertime power costs for every degree the thermostat is raised.
Fans may also help households manage comfort while reducing cooling strain. National Grid advises using ceiling, oscillating or box fans with air conditioning to circulate cool air through rooms. That can make a higher thermostat setting feel more comfortable, depending on the home and indoor conditions.
The company also recommends closing curtains and blinds to reduce sunlight-driven heat inside the home. It suggests limiting oven use when possible because ovens add heat indoors. Dishwashers, washing machines and dryers can also add electricity load and heat, so National Grid advises shifting some use to mornings or overnight when practical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are summer energy bills expected to rise in 2026?
Summer energy bills are expected to rise because electricity demand increases during extreme heat, especially when households rely heavily on air conditioning. Forecasts from the National Energy Assistance Directors Association and the Center for Energy Poverty and Climate estimate that average summer residential electric utility costs will climb 10.5 percent in 2026.
What is National Grid advising customers to do during the heat wave?
National Grid is advising customers to reduce avoidable electricity use by cleaning or replacing air filters, sealing window air conditioners, closing curtains and blinds, using fans with air conditioning, and shifting appliance use to mornings or overnight when possible.
Why do electricity prices usually increase during summer?
Electricity prices often rise in summer because demand is higher. When many homes and businesses use more power at the same time, utilities and grid operators may need to use more expensive generation sources to meet peak load.
