Understanding your electric bill during warm summer months.

August is typically one of the hottest months of the year, causing air conditioners in our homes to work overtime to maintain comfortable home environments. During extreme heat, many members may notice a jump in their electric bills and may wonder about the factors that contribute to electricity costs.

At Inland Power, we believe that understanding your electric bill is crucial for being an informed member. While the total amount due may appear as a single figure, it actually encompasses multiple costs associated with delivering reliable electricity to your residence or business.

KEY FACTORS INFLUENCING YOUR ELECTRIC BILL:

• Energy Consumption: The primary factor is often the volume of energy you utilize.

Electricity is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), and as your household’s energy consumption increases, so does your bill. In the summer, air conditioning typically drives higher energy usage. When temperatures soar into the 90s or above, cooling systems operate longer and more frequently, consuming significantly more electricity compared to milder weather.

• Cost of Electricity Generation: Another important consideration is the cost of

generating or purchasing electricity. Inland Power acquires most of its power from the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA). The cost to produce electricity can fluctuate based on fuel prices, which include natural gas and other energy resources. Changes in wholesale power costs can affect the price of electricity delivered to members.

• Demand Impact on Costs: Summer temperatures can also affect costs in less obvious ways. When electricity demand is high across a region, wholesale power prices may rise. Utilities and grid operators must ensure sufficient generation capacity to meet peak demand, and these costs can be reflected throughout the electric system.

The good news is that simple measures can significantly reduce energy consumption.

Consider the following suggestions:

• Set your thermostat a few degrees higher when you’re away

• Replace dirty HVAC filters

• Utilize ceiling fans

• Seal air leaks

• Avoid using major appliances during the hottest parts of the day.

These actions can help decrease energy usage, lower your bill, and reduce pressure

on the local grid during peak demand.

• Transmission Expenses: Transmission costs also contribute to your bill. Before

electricity reaches your home; it travels across a network of high-voltage transmission lines that connect power plants to local distribution systems. This transmission infrastructure requires ongoing maintenance and upgrades to ensure reliability, especially as electricity demand continues to rise.

• Local Distribution System Maintenance: Inland Power is responsible for maintaining the local electric distribution system, which includes utility poles, power lines, transformers, substations, and other essential equipment that safely delivers power to members. The costs associated with maintaining this infrastructure are also included in your bill through a service availability charge. Operational expenses are necessary to keep the power grid dependable and prepared to serve your home or business. Regardless of whether a member uses a little or a lot of electricity, we must sustain infrastructure and have crews, equipment, and resources ready to provide electricity around the clock.

Inland Power’s mission is to provide safe, reliable, and affordable electricity while being transparent about the factors that influence energy costs. We understand that every dollar counts, and we are dedicated to making wise investments that keep the lights on and support the communities we serve. To learn more about current projects, please visit inlandpower.com/2026-ipl-projects. If you have any questions regarding your electric bill or programs designed to help you save, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can learn more about cost saving rebate programs at inlandpower.com/residential-incentivesrebates. And remember, we are here to

assist you in making informed decisions that are beneficial for your household.