Tagged as: Costs, Energy-efficient lighting, TECO

If you’re a homeowner in Hillsborough County, brace yourself: TECO’s residential electric rates are going up starting January 2026—and it won’t be a one-time bump. This is the first of several planned increases through 2027.


But here’s the good news: there are real, practical ways to reduce your energy usage and shrink your bill, even with higher rates. Let’s break it down:

What’s Changing

TECO’s approved rate increases mean:

  • A customer using 1,000 kWh/month will see bills rise from $136.44 to $145.58 in 2026.
  • Additional hikes are already approved for the coming years, too. 
  • If your household uses more energy (think: pool pumps, older HVAC systems), expect a bigger impact.

What You Can Do Right Now

You’re not powerless. TECO offers free and rebate-backed programs that can help you reduce energy use and take control of your bill.

Prime Time Plus

Get monthly bill credits for letting TECO cycle your AC, water heater, or pool pump during high-demand times. (Credits were recently doubled!)

Energy Planner

Control your thermostat and major appliances using time-of-use rates. Run your washer, dryer, and pool pump during off-peak hours and save significantly.

Energy Efficiency Rebates

Earn cash back for upgrading insulation, sealing ductwork, replacing inefficient AC units, or even switching windows.

Payment Support

Behind on bills or worried about spikes? TECO offers assistance and flexible payment plans.

Pro tip: We’ve broken these down in more detail here: Save Money on Your Power Bill

Think Smart, Save Smart

  • Shift your energy habits. Run major appliances off-peak, clean filters, and raise the thermostat by 1–2° during peak hours.
  • Plan big upgrades with rebates in mind. If your HVAC is 10+ years old or your pool pump runs 24/7, it’s time.
  • Talk to your household. Small changes add up fast when everyone’s on board.

Act Like a Smart Neighbor

This rate hike doesn’t have to sneak up on you. Take one step today—enroll in a TECO savings program, get a home energy audit, or simply read our full savings guide here. Then, set a reminder to check your bill in 30 days.

Share this post and spread the word: The more neighbors that act now, the better we all fare in the long run! 

 
Need Help With Your Project?

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you need service, have questions, or want a quick estimate, we're here to help.

✏️ Request Service Form 📞 Call (813) 672-4084 🔍 Start the Panel Cost Estimator

From the blog

Generator Preparation for Hurricane Season | Florida Homes

Generator Preparation for Hurricane Season | Florida Homes

Hurricane Preparation

If you’re planning to use a portable generator during a hurricane, there’s one question you should answer before the power goes out:

Is your home actually ready for it?

Having a generator available is...
Bryan Hindman Electric

Bryan Hindman Electric

7 mins read

We don’t sell whole-home standby generators. Here’s why.

This may sound strange coming from an electrical contractor in Florida:
Bryan Hindman Electric

Bryan Hindman Electric

7 mins read
Portable vs. Whole-House Generators: Which Backup Power Solution Is Best for Frequent Outages?

Portable vs. Whole-House Generators: Which Backup Power Solution Is Best for Frequent Outages?

If your power goes out several times a year, a generator isn't a luxury anymore—it's peace of mind.
Bryan Hindman Electric

Bryan Hindman Electric

5 mins read
More from our blog