Guide 04 / 10
Read your electricity bill before comparing costs
Separate energy, billing period, rate, and other charges for a fairer comparison.
Start with dates and kWh
Find the start and end of the meter-reading period and the total kWh on each bill. A longer billing period can produce more kWh even when habits are unchanged. Divide kWh by the number of days to compare daily averages across different periods.
Inspect the charges
Bills may include an energy rate, fixed charges, taxes, adjustments, or discounts. Structures differ by provider and location. Dividing the final amount due by kWh therefore does not always reveal the energy-only rate. Use your provider's stated rate or label an entered value as your own approximation.
Find context before acting
Weather, occupancy, time spent at home, a new appliance, and the billing cycle can all change kWh. Record these factors alongside the numbers. One unusually high bill alone does not prove a faulty appliance or meter.