MILFORD, Del.- Milford’s electric system saw a surge in demand after a frigid January, and so did the city’s electric bills.
According to information posted on the city’s website, the average temperature in January 2025 was just 28°F—much lower than the 37°F recorded in January 2024 and 43°F in January 2023.
The colder weather led to an average residential energy usage increase of 42% compared to the five-year average for other months and 12% higher than previous Januarys.
City officials say that while usage was up, Milford’s electric rates remain among the lowest in Delaware, about 21 percent below Delmarva Power and comparable to the Delaware Electric Co-Op.
To help residents manage higher bills, the city offered several energy-saving tips, including lowering thermostats by 1-2 degrees, using programmable thermostats, sealing drafts around doors and windows and taking advantage of sunlight for natural heating.
Officials also pointed to the Efficiency Smart program, which provides rebates and an electric usage monitor to help residents track and reduce consumption.
Rebates are available for insulating windows, purchasing a water heater jacket, using the city’s budget plan and servicing HVAC systems.
The City of Milford’s Customer Service Department can be contacted at 302-422-6616 for billing inquiries.
Jerry and Vivianne Donnelly say their City of Milford electric bill jumped 400 dollars this month.
"I think we need some answers, and nobody has an answer so far, so I think they need to address the situation and explain why it's gone up so drastically for people," said the Donnellys.
CoastTV spoke to some people with City of Milford electric who say their bill went down this month.
Martha Timlin says it's been a combination of ups and downs in her house.
"Oil and gas; we've seen an increase in those prices. So, it's in keeping for what fuel prices are like around the country and given how cold things were, but electricity prices were actually slightly lower," said Timlin.
