January 2018 will go down as one of the colder months for Thomasville in recent years. In fact, during the first 22 days of the year, high temperatures were below 60 degrees for 14 days. In comparison, 2017 only saw three days during the same timeframe where the maximum temperature was below 60 degrees. Unfortunately, colder air means higher energy consumption for most customers, which will show up as a higher-than-average utility bill for many customers. To assist customers, the City of Thomasville offers several solutions to help minimize the impact of higher utility bills.
“We bill in arrears, which means that while the colder temperatures were experienced in January, customers will see that increased usage reflected on the billing statements they receive in February,” said Karis Mills, Director of Customer Service. “If customers used more energy in the form of electricity or natural gas to heat their home during those cold snaps, they will experience an increase in the cost of their utilities.”
For many customers, a higher utility bill can stress their monthly budget. With that in mind, Mills said that the City of Thomasville is willing to work with customers prior to their due date to help them manage the impact.
“We encourage our customers to come by or call and speak to our Customer Relations staff in advance,” she said. “We can work with them and help them spread out the increased cost across future utility bills to help lessen the burden.” Customer Relations staff members are available to assist 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday – Friday.
The City of Thomasville offers customers several tools to help monitor and improve their energy consumption. “We offer our utility customers online energy efficiency tips and tools, such as energy calculators and interactive energy home models,” said Mills. “These tools are available to help customers identify cost-saving measures that can be implemented to help reduce utility bills. These tips and tools may be accessed by going to Thomasville.Org, selecting ‘Utilities’ and then ‘Energy Efficiency Information.’”
Another option for customers is the Budget Billing Program. “This program is designed to help lessen the spikes that can occur with increased energy usage,” said Mills. “Enrollment is held twice yearly for this program, April and October. An application and additional information are available at Thomasville.org.”
The City of Thomasville also provides free energy audits upon request to help customers identify the ways they can save energy and lower their utility bills. “Energy audits can be scheduled by calling 227-7001 or by visiting our website, Thomasville.org,” said Mills. “Another option customers have is to monitor their energy usage with our mobile app, which is available for both Android and iOS devices.”
Mills said that the City wants to work with customers and encourages those that need assistance to call or come in prior to their due date to discuss their options. “We understand that a higher than normal utility bill can be very stressful for our customers,” said Mills. “We want to help our customers find both short term and long term solutions.”