Extreme Weather & Demand
Hot, humid summers and chilly winter snaps mean our AC and heat run a lot. When everyone uses power at the same time, demand spikes and costs go up.
Fuel Costs
Many power plants burn natural gas. When natural gas prices jump, it costs more to make electricity, and those costs are passed on to customers.
Inefficient Housing
Older homes with poor insulation, leaky windows, and aging heating and cooling systems waste energy. That means you have to use more power to stay comfortable.
Why Are Light Bills So High?
Main Drivers in South Carolina
Key Takeaway: Lower rates per kWh do not always mean lower bills. How much energy you use and how efficient your home is have a big impact on your total cost.
Rising Utility Rates
Power companies like Dominion Energy and Santee Cooper have raised rates over time. Even if you use the same amount of power, higher rates per kWh make your bill climb.
Infrastructure Costs
Utilities spend money to build and maintain poles, wires, power plants, and substations. These big projects are paid for through your monthly bill.
Legislative & Regulatory Factors
State laws and decisions by the South Carolina Public Service Commission affect how often utilities can raise rates and how costs are shared.