Electricity costs rise $300 in five years

The figures come courtesy of USA Today‘s analysis of government data. On the one hand, higher electricity bills should be expected: The average household is likely to be sucking up more electricity today, thanks to the increased use of smartphones, tablets, gaming machines, multiple TVs, and all sorts of other gadgets.

Advertisement

(GALLERY: 12 Things We Buy in a Bad Economy)

But the increased use of technology is measured, at least partly, by the fact that modern electronics and appliances require less electricity than older models. A new refrigerator, for example, requires half the electricity of its early ’90s counterpart. Today’s air-conditioners consume less electricity as well.

On the other-other hand (yes, that makes three hands, but oh well), recently constructed houses tend to be bigger than those built a generation ago—so they need more A/C. They also come with more outlets, where lamps, computers, fourth TV sets, and extra fridges are likely plugged in.

Join the conversation as a VIP Member

Trending on HotAir Videos

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement