Millions of US households are falling behind on utility payments as electricity and gas prices surge nationwide.
Kristy Hallowell said her monthly energy bill jumped to $1,800 after she lost her job, forcing her family to live without power for months.
This has been traumatic, to say the least.
Kristy Hallowell said.
Nearly one in 20 US households risk having utility debt sent to collections as winter heating costs rise.
A report found severely overdue utility debt increased by 3.8% during the first half of President Donald Trump’s second term.
Official data showed electricity prices rose 6.9% year-on-year, outpacing overall inflation.
The White House blamed previous policies and interest rates, while Trump claimed energy costs were falling.
Experts warned proposed cuts to low-income energy assistance could worsen household hardship.
Analysts said rising natural gas prices, higher fuel costs and reduced clean energy investment are pushing bills higher.
Winter heating costs are forecast to rise more than 9% amid cold weather and increased electricity demand.