With recent temperatures hitting record lows, locals may encounter highs in their electric bills from Gainesville Regional Utilities this month.
“Anytime you run your heater or air conditioner constantly, you need to be aware that your bill will be higher,” said Alex Wise, a GRU intern.
GRU broke two records for peak demand of electricity, Wise said.
Between Jan. 1 and Jan. 13, there were nine nights that the temperature was below freezing.
GRU advises people to keep the heater on 68 degrees Fahrenheit, Wise said.
“It can make a big difference because a lot of your electricity bill comes from heating and cooling cost,” Wise said.
For those who have trouble paying, GRU has plans in place to help.
Project Share, a payment program, provides one-time assistance in which people can donate or request help. Help is allotted on a case-by-case basis.
For more information, visit www.gru.com.
