Over 80 Million Americans Struggle to Pay Skyrocketing Power Bills

Analysts point to policy decisions that have driven up electricity costs as natural gas prices rise and grid infrastructure struggles.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Electricity prices have risen sharply in many states, with wholesale prices up over 60% in New York and New England, and 45% in the mid-Atlantic. Analysts say the administration's energy policies, which have emphasized rolling back climate and efficiency standards, keeping coal plants online longer, and blocking or slowing renewable energy projects, have contributed to the rising costs. As a result, nearly 1 in 3 households, or over 80 million Americans, are struggling to pay their utility bills.

Why it matters

Rising electricity costs are a significant burden for millions of families, forcing them to cut spending in other areas like groceries and healthcare. Low-income households are the most vulnerable, as they face a higher energy burden. The long-term implications of limiting renewable energy growth could also reduce utilities' opportunities to lower rates through lower-cost power generation.

The details

Analysts say the administration's energy policies, which have emphasized rolling back climate and efficiency standards, keeping coal plants online longer, and blocking or slowing renewable energy projects such as wind and solar, have driven up electricity costs as natural gas prices rise and grid infrastructure struggles with aging systems and weather-related damage.

  • Electricity prices have risen, not fallen, in most states since 2026.

The players

Charles Hua

Runs national energy consumer education nonprofit PowerLines.

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What they’re saying

“Almost 1 in 3 households, or over 80 million Americans, are struggling to pay their utility bills.”

— Charles Hua, Runs national energy consumer education nonprofit PowerLines (NPR)

What’s next

Families can still save significantly on energy bills by going solar, regardless of federal policies. Tools like EnergySage, Palmetto's $0-down LightReach solar leasing program, and the Palmetto Home app can help homeowners access exclusive offers and rewards to lower their utility rates.

The takeaway

Rising electricity costs are a significant burden for millions of families, but homeowners can take steps to save money on their energy bills, such as installing solar panels and using energy-efficient appliances, regardless of the current political landscape and policy decisions.