As of January 1, customers of the two biggest utilities in the state, Eversource and United Illuminating, can expect their bills to skyrocket.

Standard service rates will jump 19-percent and 24-percent for Eversource and UI respectively. For the average homeowner using Eversource for the generation of energy, they can expect to pay on average $12 more each month. For UI, you’ll pay on average about $16 more each month.

Consumers in Connecticut are not stuck with just those two options for the generation of their energy. You can compare rates and shop for supplies on Energize Connecticut’s website.

Consumers are urged to do their research because of monthly fees or enrollment or cancellation charges. Never sign a contract without getting the answers to your questions, including how long is the contract? Does it automatically renew? How much notice must be given to change suppliers?

Luke Frey, the Communications Manager with the Better Business Bureau says there are some tips to cut down on your bill even more.

“Have your thermostat set about 10 degrees lower than comfortable while you’re out of the home or while you’re sleeping,” Frey said. “That could save you about 10-percent.”

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Frey recommends using a programmable thermostat and having curtains on your windows to hold the heat in.

According to the BBB, it’s also the season for scammers. Experts say keep an eye out for suspicious calls or letters seeking an immediate response for personal information.

“Around these winter months, scammers go after utility scams or fraud,” Frey said. “Since people are relying on their energy, they don’t want their lights turned off they don’t want their heat turned off.”