Wisconsin winters are unpredictable — snow, spring-like sunshine and sub-zero temperatures are all possible. This winter has been what Wisconsinites typically see, with arctic air covering the state. That means furnaces are working harder and using more energy to keep homes safe and warm.
With typical winter weather in 2025, We Energies customers may have noticed heating bills that are higher than last year. Here’s what to know about why heating costs are higher — and the steps you can take to keep costs down.
What’s causing heating bills to be higher this winter?
Last winter was the warmest in Milwaukee history, featuring the warmest February temperature (74 degrees) ever recorded. Natural gas also hit record-low daily and monthly prices during the winter. That combination caused heating bills to be well below a typical winter.
This year, weather conditions and natural gas prices have both returned to normal levels, meaning heating costs have increased compared to 2024.
Can I see the impact of weather on my bill?
Yes. The Account Summary section of a customer’s bill shows monthly and yearly average temperatures. It also includes heating degree days and a graph showing how a customer’s energy use has changed month-to-month. Find out more about reading your bill.
Why did my bill go up this winter?
Customer bills typically cover the previous month’s usage. For example, January bills include the impact of December weather, which is usually colder than November weather and causes furnaces to run more frequently. This is why winter bills are often higher.
Didn’t rates go up in January? Is that causing my bill to be higher?
The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin set new base rates for We Energies customers in 2024. Under this approved plan, a typical residential heating customer will see a $2-$4 increase per month in base rates on their monthly bill.
It’s important to note that 60-70% of a customer’s heating bill is the cost of natural gas. The price We Energies pays for natural gas is the same price its customers pay — there is no markup. Higher natural gas prices and colder weather this winter have caused heating costs to rise.
What is We Energies doing to help customers with higher heating bills?
We Energies takes multiple proactive steps to provide affordable, reliable energy while minimizing the effects of sudden price changes on its customers. These steps include:
- Buying and storing natural gas in the summer, when prices are typically lower.
- Locking in guaranteed contracts for natural gas at fixed prices.
- Purchasing natural gas on the commodities market.
We Energies also works tirelessly to help customers manage heating costs. The company offers payment options and plans to assist customers having difficulty with their bills
What can I do to lower my costs?
Customers can take steps to manage their energy use by scheduling an annual furnace tuneup, sealing gaps around windows and doors, and lowering their thermostats when they are away or asleep. Go to the We Energies website for more low- and no-cost energy-saving tips.
The company’s partners at Focus on Energy offer a number of rebates on smart thermostats, furnaces, boilers, water heaters and more. Free energy-saving kits can also be ordered from their website.
What should I do if I have questions about my bill?
Any customer concerned about their bill should reach out to We Energies right away to explore payment options and financial assistance. Customers can contact We Energies 24 hours a day through its website, the We Energies app or by calling 800-242-9137.