If you’re a Floridian used to leaving the air conditioning on most of the time, you’re probably feeling a little anxious about your electricity bill.

And you are not alone. A recent CNET investigation found that 78% of Americans are concerned about rising home energy costs. Floridians generally pay more for electricity than the average American. However, this is a bit counterintuitive. Electricity rates in Florida are lower than the national average, but Florida residents use more electricity each month, leading to higher bills.

Daniel MassadCEO of Florida contractor Guardian Home, said this is the most common thing he hears from his customers: “My electric bill is high, what can I do about it?”

Well, you have a few options. Whether you’re ready to invest in big energy efficiency projects like solar panels, or just want to reduce your monthly bill a little, experts have tips to help you save on energy costs.

Here’s what you need to know to reduce your electric bill in Florida.

What is the average electricity bill in Florida?

Technically speaking, the cost of electricity in Florida is cheaper than the national average. In fact, electricity rates in Florida are nearly half those of some New England states.

But this does not translate into lower bills. This is because Floridians use (on average) more electricity than residents of other states – nearly double for some New Englanders, for example.

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Electricity consumption and bills are not static each month. Florida residents tend to use more energy when running the air conditioner during the warmer months, and less energy when the weather gets colder. The table below shows the average electricity bill in Florida in 2023, according to data from the Energy Information Administration:

Getting Solar Panels in Florida

If you’re ready to start reducing your electricity bill in Florida, the Sunshine State’s namesake will give you a big boost: Install solar panels on your roof can help you reduce your reliance on your utility company and could even make you money by selling any excess electricity you produce to the grid.

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“You produce electricity, which earns you credits from the utility company,” says Massaad. This is called net billingand Massaad says most Florida utility companies have favorable net metering policies that can generate a significant amount of bill credits for you. Floridians are paid at full retail price (the price your utility charges for electricity) for excess electricity sold to electric utilities.

You can start by getting estimates from a few local solar installers. Be sure to check online reviews, research licenses and certifications, and choose a contractor you feel comfortable working with. Be sure to ask any questions you may have about the process, such as financing and system installation. If your installer cannot answer your questions, it is a red flag. You should also ask your installer about any problems solar incentives you may qualify.

Florida Electric Bill Assistance

You don’t need to invest in a big project like solar power to reduce your electricity bill. Florida offers several programs that can help you offset your energy costs. Here are some options:

• The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program is open to residents who earn no more than 60% of the Florida state median income. You can find your local agency and apply for the program here.
• The Emergency Energy Assistance Program for Seniors is open to households where at least one member is over 60 and whose income is below certain ceilings. The program can help pay bills and offers things like blankets, portable heaters and fans.
• Tampa Electric offers bill payment assistance to some of its customers through a program called Sharewhich is administered by the Salvation Army and the Diocese of Catholic Charities of St. Petersburg.
• Other utility providers in the state may also offer billing assistance. Contact your local utility company to find out what is available.
• If you cannot make a payment on time, payment extensions are also available from some utility companies. Check with your utility and ask what they offer.

Energy Saving Tips for Floridians

The most obvious way to reduce your energy bill is to start by reducing the amount of energy you use. Even small changes like adjusting your thermostat and unplug certain electronic devices when you don’t use them, it can make a difference. Here are some ways to reduce your electricity consumption.

Set your thermostat to the right temperature

One of the simplest things you can do to reduce your air conditioning costs is simply adjust your thermostat. Simply set it to a higher temperature when no one is home, then turn it down when you return. Set your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees from your normal setting for 8 hours per day can save up to 10% per year.

Change your AC filter

Believe it or not, you need to change your AC filter about once every three months. And it can help reduce the amount of energy your air conditioner uses to cool your home. One estimate suggests that a clean filter can reduce the amount of energy your air conditioner uses by 5-15%.

Get a fan

It’s a simple trick, but it’s worth a try. Cross ventilation with fans and air conditioning can help relieve some of the strain on your HVAC system. The less your HVAC needs to run, the less energy it will use and the lower your bill will be.

Unplug the “energy vampires”

Large electronics like your TV, computer, printer or coffee maker drain energy from your home even when you are not using them. They are called energy vampires. The US Department of Energy estimates you can save between $100 and $200 per year by unplugging these devices when not in use.

Consider Energy Efficiency Improvements

Solar power isn’t the only expensive energy improvement. Massaad says investing in better insulation, as well as new windows, can significantly reduce the amount of energy you use to cool and heat your home. You can also install a smart thermostat to help you optimize the heating and cooling of your home.