Energy Prices Impact Budgets

Washington State residents pay on average more than a thousand dollars a year for electricity, natural gas and petroleum delivered to their homes. Add gasoline and other personal transportation expenses, and the average household energy bill more than doubles.

Small businesses face many of the same energy challenges as homeowners: Space heating and cooling, lighting, and the cost of operating appliances and office equipment.

From 2000 to 2005, the price of natural gas for residential use in Washington increased 68 percent, while fuel oil went up 50 percent and the cost of electricity rose 28 percent. Since natural gas also is used to generate electricity, escalating prices ultimately affect anyone who pays a utility bill.