The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) is urging households and businesses to reduce electricity consumption as rising international fuel prices and increased local demand put pressure on energy costs.

Acting Financial Controller Sabrina Benjamin advised customers to review their spending and monitor how changes in electricity use affect their bills. She recommended limiting air-conditioning, switching off unused appliances and paying closer attention to bill information.

Electricity Business Unit Manager Andre Matthias said higher temperatures have led to more frequent and prolonged use of air conditioners, increasing household consumption even with energy-efficient inverter units.

Utilities Minister Melford Nicholas said conserving electricity would help APUA manage costs while allowing customers to better control their household budgets.

Customers are also being encouraged to compare average daily consumption, rather than focusing only on the total bill, to determine whether higher charges are linked to increased usage or a longer billing period.

Those who believe their bills are inaccurate can request an investigation at an APUA customer service centre.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: APUA Urges Customers to Conserve Electricity as Costs Rise.