During 2024, the Sonora government implemented a subsidy on the electricity rate to alleviate the economic impact on households, particularly during the hottest months of the year. This measure, which was applied through the 1F rate, allowed for a significant reduction in costs per kilowatt-hour (kWh), benefiting a large number of users who face high energy consumption due to the heat. However, with the end of the subsidy on October 31, electricity bills could increase if the use of household appliances is not controlled.
Details of the subsidy
The subsidy was in effect from April 1 to October 31, 2024, extending for one month longer than in previous years. This initiative was the result of an agreement between the Government of Sonora and the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE), with a federal investment of close to 1,400 million pesos, benefiting approximately 1.7 million domestic users in the state. During this period, households were able to access lower rates, which helped lessen the impact of high energy consumption due to the heat.
Consumption ranges and rates applied during the subsidy:
Basic consumption: From 0 to 1,200 kWh per month, with a rate of 0.72 pesos per kWh.
Intermediate consumption: From 1,201 to 2,500 kWh per month, with a rate of 0.91 pesos per kWh.
Surplus consumption: More than 2,500 kWh per month, with a rate of 2.21 pesos per kWh.
What now?
With the subsidy now over, Sonora users will once again face higher rates if they do not take steps to reduce their energy consumption. Electricity bills could increase significantly, especially for those households that made intensive use of air conditioners and other high-consumption appliances during the hot season.
This is a wake-up call for Sonoran households to adopt responsible energy consumption practices, such as turning off lights and appliances when they are not in use, as well as optimizing the use of appliances to avoid an unnecessary increase in electricity bills.
The impact of electricity consumption
The subsidy allowed families to more easily cope with the increase in their energy consumption during the hottest months. Now, with the end of the measure, it is essential that users are aware that irresponsible use of electricity could result in a considerable increase in their bills.
It is important to avoid excessive use of air conditioning, which remains one of the most energy-consuming appliances, and to make rational use of energy in all homes to mitigate the impact on the pockets of Sonorans. In addition, being well informed about rates and how different levels of consumption affect bills can help families better plan their energy expenditure.
How much will I pay now?
With the subsidy now over, households must be prepared to face an increase in their energy costs. Below are examples of how much you would pay with unsubsidized rates:
Recommendations to reduce costs and consumption
Avoid constant use of air conditioners: Make sure the thermostat is at a reasonable temperature and turn off appliances when not in use.
Optimize the use of appliances: Use high-consumption appliances such as the microwave or washing machine efficiently, preferably during times of lower demand.
Turn off lights and appliances: Do not leave lights or appliances on unnecessarily.
Although the electric power subsidy provided economic relief during the hot season, it is now essential that Sonoran households maintain a responsible attitude in the use of electricity to avoid increases in their bills. Reducing energy consumption will not only help keep bills at a manageable level, but will also contribute to the energy sustainability of the region.
Source: elimparcial
