Residents Report Spike in Electric Bills Amid Winter Cold

Dominion Energy cites higher usage due to plunging temperatures and winter storms in South Carolina.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Some residents in Lower Richland County, South Carolina are reporting sudden spikes in their electric bills, with some even seeing past-due balances before their payment deadlines. Dominion Energy, the local utility provider, says the higher-than-typical energy bills are due to plunging temperatures and winter storms that have caused heating systems to work overtime to keep homes warm.

Why it matters

The sudden increase in electric bills is concerning for residents, many of whom are on fixed incomes or already struggling with the economic impacts of the pandemic. The situation highlights the challenges that low-income households face when energy costs rise unexpectedly, potentially leading to difficult choices between paying utility bills and affording other necessities.

The details

Residents in the Lower Richland area have taken to social media to compare their electric bills, with some reporting past-due balances appearing before their payment deadlines and monthly bills exceeding $700 despite having solar panels. Darius Mitchell said his bill was $165 for a month when he was away, which he found "peculiar." Dominion Energy has acknowledged the issue, stating that with temperatures plunging to near-historic lows, heating systems have been working around the clock, leading to higher energy usage and bills for customers across their service territory.

  • In February 2026, residents in Lower Richland County began reporting sudden spikes in their electric bills.
  • Dominion Energy cited the higher-than-typical energy bills as being due to the recent winter storms and plunging temperatures across South Carolina.

The players

Dominion Energy

The local utility provider serving the Lower Richland County area of South Carolina.

Darius Mitchell

A resident of Lower Richland County who reported a $165 electric bill for a month when he was away from home.

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What they’re saying

“I was gone all of January and when I paid my February rent, the electric on there was $165, and I thought that was peculiar. If I was there, I would understand, but I wasn't there for December or January.”

— Darius Mitchell, Resident (wltx.com)

What’s next

Dominion Energy has encouraged customers with questions or concerns about their monthly bills to reach out to the company directly. The utility provider has also offered tips for conserving energy, such as adjusting thermostats, checking air filters, and sealing cracks and openings.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the financial strain that unexpected spikes in utility costs can have on households, particularly those with limited incomes. It underscores the need for energy assistance programs and policies that help ensure affordable and reliable access to essential services like electricity, especially during extreme weather events.