El Dorado Residents Face Rising Electric Bills Amid Heat Waves

EL DORADO — As the region grapples with the aftermath of a recent heat wave and anticipates more extreme temperatures, residents are bracing for significant increases in their electric bills. Local businesses, particularly restaurants, are feeling the pinch. Dean Hiatt, executive chef at Poor Red's Bar-B-Q, expressed concern over the financial strain, noting that his establishment's monthly bill typically averages around $4,000. With the latest heat wave, he fears the upcoming bill will be even higher, impacting both his business and his customers. The rising costs are attributed to recent rate hikes by Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E). A 12.8% increase implemented in January added approximately $32 to the average monthly bill, followed by another increase in April that raised bills by an additional $5. These adjustments have left many residents and business owners anxious about their energy expenses, especially during extreme weather conditions that drive up usage. Suzanne Goodrich, a resident of El Dorado County, shared her experience with soaring electric bills, revealing that her highest bill reached around $800 for just two people. In response to the escalating costs, she made the switch to solar energy two years ago, which she claims has resulted in monthly savings. Goodrich's sentiments reflect a growing trend among residents seeking alternative energy solutions to mitigate the financial burden of high electric bills. As the community continues to endure the heat, the impact of rising energy costs remains a pressing concern for both individuals and local businesses.