How PNM customers can save on their electric bills - KOAT New Mexico

Why PNM customers are dealing with higher electric bills

How PNM customers can save on their electric bills

Some customers are reporting hundreds of dollars in energy use — PNM officials say there's reason for that and have tips for customers and how they can save.

Peggy Abby is just one of the many PNM customers who says her bill was as high as $400 — or more. She, like many others, is wondering how their bills could skyrocket this summer.

"There has to be an answer. This doesn't just happen overnight," Abby said. "I have solar panels. Why would it be this high? It just doesn't make any sense."

With historic high temperatures this summer, PNM says the answer is simple.

"When we kind of break those down, we would see that more than half of your bill is really driven by your air conditioner, particularly in the summertime," PNM's Principle Generation Advisor Thomas Fallgren said.

However, there are ways for you to save as we wait for the summer heat to cool down. PNM suggests you turn off your AC running when you aren't home, and when you are, set your AC as high as you comfortably can. You can also request an energy expert to look at your house to find even more ways to save.

"The energy adviser leaves you with you smart power strips and a bunch of light bulbs and a bunch of things that will help lower the amount of energy you use in your home," PNM Spokesperson Shannon Jackson said.

You should also be aware of when you are consuming power. Rates are higher between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. If you are using appliances like stoves and dishwashers, it's best to use them either early in the morning or before you go to bed. While many of us wait for the heat to go away, customers are thinking of what to do in the meantime.

"I will have to eat a lot less," Abby said. "Maybe turn the air conditioner off. I don't know."

PNM also has a number of resources for people to use at PNM.com/help and additional tips at PNM.com/tips.