Set your thermostat this way to stay warm & still save cash in MS during winter storm
Southern Mississippi is expected to face below-freezing temperatures this weekend as a winter storm moves across the United States.
Weather experts are issuing warnings about the potentially dangerous conditions as a result of the nationwide storm. On the Mississippi Coast, the temperature could drop to the lower 20s — the coldest the region has experienced this winter so far, the Sun Herald reported.
As temperatures continue to fall, Mississippians could see a spike in their energy bill, but there are some things you can do to stay warm and save money. Here’s what to know.
Best thermostat setting to save money in extreme cold
If you’re being budget-conscious during the colder months, you might notice your energy bills going up.
To lower costs, try setting your thermostat back by about seven to 10 degrees from its normal setting for at least eight hours a day, officials at the U.S. Department of Energy suggest.
“You can save money on your heating and cooling bills by simply resetting your thermostat when you are asleep or away from home,” officials said.
Thermostats should typically be set between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during waking hours. Energy costs increase by 3% to 5% for each degree higher the thermostat is set at during the winter, according to Mississippi Power.
What are other ways to save on energy during winter?
These are some additional ways to stay warm and cut energy costs during the colder months, according to the U.S. Department of Energy:
- Take advantage of natural sunlight
- Cover drafty windows
- Find and seal air leaks
- Maintain your heating systems
- Reduce heat loss from the fireplace by keeping your damper closed when not in use
- Lower water heating costs by keeping the water heater on 120 degrees Farenheit
Need help paying your energy bill? Here’s what you can do in MS
For Mississippians struggling to keep up with energy costs this winter, there are some options for financial relief. Here’s what you can do, according to Mississippi Power:
- Mississippi Power’s Project SHARE: for older adults and people with disabilities that are Mississippi Power customers in need of assistance
- Supplemental Security Income: a federal income maintenance program for older adults and people with disabilities administered through the Social Security Administration
- Temporary Aid to Needy Families: a federal income maintenance program for low-income families administered by the Mississippi Department of Human Services
- Mississippi Power’s Bill Extender program: allows customers an extended payment due date
- Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program: a federally-funded program that helps qualified low-income houses with their energy bills
This story was originally published January 24, 2026 at 5:00 AM.
