Rising electricity rates are forcing Texas families to choose between groceries and utilities, as one Fort Worth mother finds relief heading into the holidays.
FORT WORTH, Texas — Rising utility bills are forcing some Texas families to choose between paying for electricity and putting food on the table.
For Shakina Thompson, the pressure has become personal.
Last month, she said her gas and electricity bills climbed to more than $200, adding to months of uncertainty and difficult tradeoffs.
Some months, she had to choose between paying for groceries or her utility bill.
“It was very tough,” Thompson said.
According to the Texas Energy Poverty Research Institute, electricity rates are up 30% since 2021, with another 29% increase projected by 2030.
“It’s a top concern for people in the state of Texas right now,” said Sandie Haverlah, president of the Texas Consumer Association.
Haverlah said utility companies have built-in incentives tied to infrastructure expansion, costs she said are ultimately passed on to consumers.
“In terms of growth, it’s really been uncontrollable in Texas in the last couple of decades,” she said. “That’s how they get paid. Build a new line, get paid. Put in more equipment, get paid.”
For Thompson, the rising costs meant living with constant uncertainty.
“Never knowing what the bill may be, you’re kind of holding on to a prayer,” she said.
Help from the Fort Worth Community Action Partners program has provided some relief. The program covers most of her utility bills for the year, giving her breathing room heading into the holidays.
“I actually was in there crying, just bawling,” Thompson said. “Just knowing there was some hope, someone willing to help you, willing to help a single mother get through some tough times.”
With that help, Thompson said she can focus on her daughter.