Alabama’s summer heat isn’t letting up — and neither is the demand on home air conditioners.

After a hot July, high temperatures have continued into August, potentially pushing household energy use — and monthly bills — higher.

While Alabama Power says its rates remain frozen, increased electricity use can still mean a higher monthly bill. That can be particularly noticeable in Alabama, where households use about 30% more electricity than the U.S. average year-round, according to the company.

Alabama Power attributes the higher usage largely to the state’s climate and reliance on electric heating and cooling. Federal data support the company’s estimate.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Alabama residential customers used an average of 1,143 kilowatt-hours of electricity per month in 2024, compared with 863 kWh nationally. That puts Alabama’s average usage about 32% higher than the U.S. average.

Air conditioning is a big part of that equation. Alabama Power says heating and cooling systems account for 35% to 50% of a home’s monthly energy use.

For customers trying to figure out where all that electricity is going, Alabama Power is offering its Home Energy Reports.

Customers who sign up receive a monthly email report comparing their home’s energy use over time. The reports also provide information on a household’s usage and characteristics, along with recommendations to help customers reduce energy consumption.

Alabama Power says it takes about two months after sign-up for the monthly reports to begin. Customers must be on the company’s Family Dwelling residential rate plan and have at least three months of usage history to qualify.

To sign up , customers need their house number or P.O. Box number, ZIP code and last name.

In the meantime, the company recommends several ways to reduce summer energy use:

Watch the thermostat: Keeping the thermostat setting closer to the outside temperature reduces the amount of work an air conditioner must do, although Alabama Power says customers should take comfort and health needs into consideration.

Consider a smart thermostat: It can monitor humidity, which affects how warm a home feels, and be programmed on a schedule to better control indoor temperatures.

Seal drafty areas: Check for cracks or openings around doors and windows, and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk.

Change air filters: Alabama Power recommends changing HVAC filters monthly. Homes with pets may need particular attention because pet hair and dander can cause filters to fill more quickly.

Close blinds and shades: Keeping them closed when temperatures are high can prevent sunlight from raising indoor temperatures.

Use fans wisely: Fans can make people feel cooler by circulating air, but they don’t cool the room itself. Alabama Power recommends turning them off when leaving a room.

Home Energy Reports are one of several tools and services Alabama Power offers customers. Others include:

My Power Usage to track daily energy use and identify patterns.

Rate Advisor to compare rate options based on how and when a household uses electricity.

Budget Billing to average costs throughout the year and reduce seasonal swings in monthly bills.

Energy Assistant to connect customers with assistance options and next steps.

Bill Explainer to help customers understand the different sections of their bill.

Digital Wallet payment options, including Venmo and Google Pay.

Online options to schedule payments, enroll in AutoPay and set up billing alerts.

Customers can find additional summer energy-saving tools, resources and tips at AlabamaPower.com/Summer.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].