North Charleston residents like mom Eliza Renstrom are reeling from unexpected $300+ February power bills—up $70 from prior months despite milder winter conditions—sparking debates over Dominion Energy affordability as the utility seeks a rate hike.
Bill Spike Factors
Dominion blames cold snaps triggering heat pumps’ auxiliary/emergency modes (50%+ of home energy use), plus home age, insulation, and appliance efficiency. Renstrom notes even last January’s snow days didn’t match this jump, forcing budget cuts like skipping kids’ gymnastics.
Pending Rate Hike
Dominion’s $322M request to SC Public Service Commission covers $1.4B in grid investments since 2023, including Hurricane Helene recovery. If approved, residential bills…..