Havasu Residents Demand Answers Amid Staggering Electric Bill Protests

Lake Havasu City residents are expressing their frustration over skyrocketing electric bills, prompting a community petition directed at the Arizona Corporation Commission. Local resident Nanci Dickey spearheaded the initiative following a surge of complaints on social media regarding immensely high energy costs. A gathering at the Mohave County Library saw numerous residents venting their grievances and signing the petition aimed at addressing utility concerns.

Dickey, who has lived in Havasu for nearly a decade, stated her electric bill soared from $298 last year to an alarming $500 this year, despite similar weather conditions. “Every citizen here feels used,” she asserted, reflecting widespread sentiment among locals.

The petition emerges after a year of rising costs since the Arizona Corporation Commission endorsed a “Purchased Power and Fuel Adjustment Charge” for UniSource Energy Services customers. This 9% surcharge was introduced to recover $104 million in fuel expenses. While aimed at alleviating financial burdens, many residents claim that it has instead led to unprecedented bill increases.

Concerns grew last summer when residents reported hundreds of dollars in electric bill hikes. Mohave County Supervisor Buster Johnson responded by urging residents to oppose the growing surcharge, which was followed by another 12% rate increase enacted in February.

Dickey’s petition is not the only one highlighting customer dissatisfaction. Some residents report receiving bills upwards of $1,000 even after taking measures to reduce usage. “Some people are still getting $400 electric bills. It’s outrageous,” said Dickey, exposing serious disparities in billing.

In response to the concerns, UniSource officials attributed the surging bills to record-high July temperatures, averaging 114 degrees. They revealed typical households consumed significantly more electricity this summer than in previous years. Yet, many locals remain skeptical about the company’s explanations.

Residents articulated their concerns during the signing event, sharing their experiences and frustrations with the rising costs. Bob Barrett detailed a $414 July electric bill, a stark increase from the previous year, despite using less energy. “Between rate increases, people are here because they can’t afford it,” he lamented, highlighting the dire situation for many in the community.

In a curious twist, even those with solar installations are reporting high bills, raising questions about billing practices. Lake Havasu resident Angel Miniet expressed disbelief at his $419 bill, despite having 39 solar panels. “It’s ridiculous,” he remarked.

As part of the ongoing mobilization, an additional petition signing opportunity will take place on August 20 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Mohave County Library, allowing more residents to voice their concerns about escalating energy costs.