As the price of kerosene rises, so does the electricity bill. How will you survive this winter?

The price of kerosene is soaring and the electricity rate is also rising. How will you survive this winter?

In 2021, the prices of energy directly related to our lives, such as electricity and kerosene, will continue to rise, and even in 2022, the impact will remain. As prices continue to rise, how should we survive this harsh winter? *This article is based on information as of January 24, 2022.

How much will my electricity bill be in February 2022?

Electric power companies, mainly Tokyo Electric Power Co., have announced a price increase for electricity in February 2022. Taking TEPCO as an example, the electricity bill for January 2022 was 7,631 yen (up 146 yen from December 2021) as the amount of impact on an average model household, but the amount for February 2022 increased by ¥330 to ¥7,961. The reason for the price increase is said to be due to the surge in fuel prices from August to October 2021.

What is the kerosene price in January 2022?

According to the results of the "Petroleum Product Price Survey" by the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the retail price of kerosene as of January 24, 2022 is 110.4 yen per liter. , 4 yen higher than 106.4 yen as of December 20, 2021. The wholesale price of kerosene is rising, and it is expected that the price of kerosene at stores will continue to rise in the future.

How to save money on heating in winter?

In winter in Japan, the use of heaters is essential in many areas, but with rising energy prices, many people are concerned about utility bills and are conscious of saving money. Isn't there some people who are refraining from it? Therefore, we will introduce how to use heating equipment to reduce utility costs as much as possible. ■Prevent warm air from escaping from the room There are many points in the house where warm air escapes. By taking countermeasures to this point, you can prevent the room temperature from dropping, increase the heating efficiency, and save utility costs. For example, attach insulation sheets or bubble wrap materials (so-called bubble wrap sheets) to windows that can be purchased at home centers, use insulation curtains for winter, close gaps between doors and windows with special tape, and use shutters at night. Closing is a simple and effective method. ■Using heaters with high cost performance In general, electric stoves and ceramic fan heaters consume a lot of power, while air conditioners, gas fan heaters, and kerosene stoves consume less fuel and power. Especially with the latest air conditioners, once the room temperature stabilizes, the heating effect can be maintained with little power consumption unless the temperature is set very high or the power is turned on and off frequently. Also, if it's a little chilly and you're worried about using a heater, it's recommended to wear thick clothes, or if your feet are cold, use an electric blanket to keep you warm. ■ Lay a carpet or insulating sheet on the floor If the floor is wooden and nothing is spread, just laying a carpet or carpet on the sitting area can help reduce the coldness of the lower body, such as the feet and lower back. Also, if you put an insulation sheet between the floor and the floor, you can block the cold air from the floor and further reduce the cold.

Overcome this winter's energy price hike with a little ingenuity!

Continuing from 2021, energy prices, mainly kerosene and electricity, will continue to rise in 2022, but with a little ingenuity, you can reduce the impact even a little. If you feel that your household budget is tight due to the increase in electricity bills in winter, please try how to use heaters efficiently and how to stay warm at home. Source TEPCO Energy Partner February 2022 Electricity rate fuel cost adjustment Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Agency for Natural Resources and Energy Petroleum product price survey Author: Teru Tsuge administrative scrivener

Financial Field Editorial Department