Cold weather, World Cup, holidays, and yellow alert: electricity bills could be heavier this winter.

Several studies and surveys conducted by energy distributors, such as Enel and Neoenergia, show that electricity consumption tends to increase during the winter. Depending on the habits of each household, the electricity bill can rise between 20% and 40% due to colder days, more intensive use of electrical equipment, school holidays, and the adoption of higher tariff flags.

This year, winter coincides with the World Cup. Although increased energy consumption is common at this time of year, the Brazilian national team's games tend to increase the amount of time families spend at home and the use of appliances such as televisions, lighting, and household appliances, adding extra pressure on energy costs.

The concern is greater for consumers served by the captive market, since the increase in consumption is occurring at a time of higher costs for energy generation. Currently, the yellow tariff flag is in effect, which adds R$ 1,885 to every 100 kWh consumed on the electricity bill.

For a household with a monthly consumption of 200 kWh, for example, the additional charge for the yellow flag represents approximately R$ 3,77 on the bill. Although the amount alone is not high, it adds to the typical increase in consumption during winter.

Furthermore, part of the market is already working with the possibility of adopting the red flag 1 in July. The concern is related to the hydrological scenario and the increased use of thermoelectric plants, which have a higher generation cost than hydroelectric plants.

Consumption in winter

According to an analysis by CPFL Paulista, electric showers are among the main contributors to increased residential energy consumption during the winter. According to the distributor, when used in the "winter" setting, the appliance can consume up to 30% more energy than in "summer" mode.

In a household with four residents using a 7.500 W shower daily for 15 minutes each, consumption can reach approximately 225 kWh per month from showering alone.

Heaters also represent a significant impact. A 1.500 W heater running for about 3,5 hours a day can consume approximately 160 kWh per month. Clothes dryers can add between 80 and 100 kWh per month to a household's consumption.

According to the distributor, the cold weather also tends to increase the use of washing machines, electric irons, and electric faucets, further contributing to a rise in energy demand. "The start of winter on June 21st, coupled with the maintenance of the yellow tariff flag by Aneel (Brazilian Electricity Regulatory Agency) and the increased time spent at home during school holidays and the World Cup, raises a red flag regarding electricity consumption," highlights CPFL Paulista.

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