As Dangerous Heat Waves Hit Western States, Cooling Bills Are Skyrocketing

Washington, DC — As dangerous heat waves continue to hit Western states, millions of people were advised to stay inside across California, Arizona, and Nevada. Meanwhile, Trump and congressional Republicans’ attacks on clean energy have spiked electricity costs by as much as 13% nationwide, making it more expensive for families to cool their homes and stay safe. 

Climate Power Senior Advisor Mia Logan issued the following statement: 

“Being able to turn on your air conditioning during a dangerous heat wave can be a life-or-death issue. Working families are already stretched thin and can’t afford skyrocketing electric and A/C bills to keep their homes cool and families safe. Trump has broken his promise to lower energy costs for families. Instead, Trump has created a self-inflicted energy crisis and spiked utility bills across the country—putting communities at risk during deadly heat waves.” 

The climate crisis is fueling more frequent and intense heat waves, with the U.S. experiencing periods of abnormally hot weather at least three times more often than in the 1960s. As data centers increase energy demand and strain the grid, Trump and congressional Republicans have slashed our clean energy production and taken cheap, reliable energy offline that would have strengthened the grid during heat waves and lowered utility bills. Trump’s petty vendetta against clean energy will raise household energy bills by more than $200 in Arizona and more than $300 in Nevada and California by 2035.