Home heating expenses in the US are expected to jump 10.5%, on average, due in part to colder temperatures forecast for the Northeast and Midwest, according to the National Energy Assistance Directors Association.
CNN reports consumers who heat with electricity will be hit the hardest, with their costs projected to rise 13.6% to $1,208 for the winter season, the association found. The expense of maintaining and upgrading the electric grid is driving up costs, particularly in the West, where fires have ravaged the grid and electric heating costs could soar nearly 23%.
The price tag for heating with propane will rise 7.3% to $1,442 this winter, while natural gas users will see a 7.2% increase to $644. Natural gas prices have stabilized but are expected to rise over the winter as US exports increase, said Mark Wolfe, the association’s executive director.
But those who heat with oil will catch somewhat of a break after a pricey heating season last year, with costs expected to rise only 6.1% to $1,963 this winter. A weak oil market has led to a drop in prices.
