FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Extreme Winter Cold Drives Up Energy Use in Farmington

Farmington, Missouri (February 25, 2026) – Winter often brings higher utility bills. When temperatures are low, electricity use increases due to higher heating needs. This is especially true during extended periods of extreme cold weather like Farmington has experienced this winter.

The larger the difference in temperature inside your house versus outside, the more energy you will use to heat your home. As a result, Farmington residents had higher than average electric usage in January and February, which will be reflected on bills received in January, February, and March, depending on your billing cycle. Average residential electricity usage increased significantly during the extreme cold, particularly for households that rely on electric heat. Wholesale energy costs also rose during the winter storm, further contributing to higher monthly bills.

One way to manage seasonal spikes is through Budget Billing. This option provides a consistent monthly payment amount based on your average usage. Customers must have an active account for at least six months to qualify. To sign up and for more details, contact the Farmington City Light & Water office.

If you need help paying your utility bill, you may qualify for energy assistance through East Missouri Action Agency. To apply, visit the Farmington City Light & Water office, call 573-431-5191 or go to eastmoaa.org. 

The Missouri Public Utility Alliance recommends residents take the following steps to help minimize their energy use and lower bills.

• Change your furnace filter regularly to keep air flowing efficiently. Filters clog faster in homes with pets or high dust levels. 
• Keep interior doors open during heating hours so warm air can circulate freely throughout your home. 
• Give your system a quick visual check each month to make sure nothing is blocking the return or supply vents. 
• Examine exterior doors for cracks or gaps and repair weak spots that allow cold air inside. 
• Look at window frames for loose caulking and apply a fresh bead wherever you see separation. 
• Tighten or replace door sweeps to reduce drafts near the floor. 
• On a breezy day, run your hand along the edges of windows and doors to feel for cold air moving inward. 
• Make sure attic access panels close tightly and add weatherstripping if needed. 
• Adjust ceiling fans to a low, clockwise setting to gently recirculate warm air. 
• Group household activities into one or two main living areas during the coldest times of day. 
• Place thick rugs or runners on hard surface floors to make rooms feel warmer without raising heat. 
• Keep closet doors closed so they don’t pull warm air into cooler, unused spaces. 
• Lower the temperature several degrees when away or let a programmable thermostat adjust the schedule automatically.

For additional information regarding your utility bill, please visit Farmington City Light & Water at 101 South Jefferson Street in Farmington, or contact our office at 573-756-2620. We greatly appreciate your patience and respect when interacting with our staff regarding your bill. We are committed to working with any customer who may need assistance and will do our best to provide the support you need.

Media Contacts

Gregory S. Beavers, MPPA

City Administrator 

City of Farmington 

110 West Columbia Street

Farmington, Missouri 63640

Kristen White

Communications Director

City of Farmington

12 South Franklin Street

Farmington, Missouri 63640