To save money on utilities in Fort Mill, South Carolina, residents can adopt a combination of energy-efficient practices, take advantage of local incentives, and consider renewable energy options:
Reduce Electricity Usage: Fort Mill’s average residential electricity rate is about 14.1 to 14.9 cents per kWh, close to state average but below the national average. Lowering consumption by turning off unused lights, using energy-efficient LED bulbs, and unplugging devices that draw power when idle can reduce monthly bills.
Use Programmable Thermostats:Â Adjust heating and cooling settings automatically based on when you are home or away to cut down on HVAC costs, which are often the largest component of a utility bill.
Upgrade to ENERGY STAR Appliances:Â Replacing older appliances with energy-efficient models lowers electricity and water usage significantly over time.
Seal and Insulate Your Home:Â Weatherstrip windows and doors, and improve attic insulation to reduce heating and cooling demands.
Leverage Solar Energy:Â Fort Mill enjoys ample sunlight, making solar panels a valuable investment. With state and federal incentives like a 30% federal tax credit and state rebates up to $3,500, solar can pay off in about 8 years and save tens of thousands over 25 years by offsetting rising utility rates.
Take Advantage of Utility Programs:Â Duke Energy and Dominion Energy serve Fort Mill and offer programs like net metering, which credits you for excess solar power generated. Some programs also offer rebates and financing options for energy-saving upgrades.
Monitor Water Use:Â Fix leaks promptly, install low-flow fixtures, and water landscaping efficiently.
Choose Time-of-Use Plans:Â Some utilities offer lower rates during off-peak hours for running high-energy appliances like washers and dryers.
Estimated Savings and Costs
The average electricity bill in Fort Mill is about $173 per month ($2,076 per year), which is 33% lower than the national average.
Solar panel installation costs average around $10,000 to $12,000 after incentives, with estimated savings of over $44,000 across 25 years.
Simple energy efficiency steps like switching to LEDs and sealing drafts can reduce bills by an additional 10-20%.
By combining these strategies, Fort Mill residents can expect to reduce their utility expenses significantly while contributing to environmental sustainability.
SOURCES
[1](https://palmetto.com/local/south-carolina/fort-mill/)
[2](https://www.energysage.com/local-data/electricity-cost/sc/lancaster-county/fort-mill/)
[3](https://utilitieslocal.com/states/south-carolina/fort-mill/)
[4](https://www.avalara.com/taxrates/en/state-rates/south-carolina/cities/fort-mill.html)
[5](https://www.chooseenergy.com/electricity-rates-by-state/)
