Utility bills in SC could soon increase due to inflation, shortages

ROCK HILL, S.C. — Inflation and shortages are starting to take a toll on local utility providers, which could soon impact utility bills for many in South Carolina.

“It’s tough on people with Social Security like myself. I’m 77 years old, and it’s really tough,” said York County resident Randy Lane.

Rock Hill’s deputy city manager, Jimmy Bagley, said inflation and shortages have increased the cost of so many things needed to operate the city’s water treatment plan.

“Right now we’re seeing surcharges on metal. So any pipes we’ve had to put in the plant recently, not only are we paying traditional costs, but some of these are on state contract where if you’re paying $50 a foot, we’re paying that, but they’re charging a $30 surcharge on top of that,” he said.

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Bagley said the cost of chemicals, materials and employee salaries have also increased.

Now, the city is recommending an 11% spike in water costs for municipal customers, like York County, the city of York, Fort Mill, Tega Cay and Catawba Indian Nation. Each municipality would decide how to pass the increase on to its customers.

Spike in water costs for municipal customers Spike in water costs for municipal customers (WSOC)

Amanda Wallace said her family is already praying about how to handle that potential increase and others.

“As a family we pray a lot, and we rely on the Lord to give us knowledge and wisdom and guide our steps,” she said.

Customers in the city of Rock Hill could also see an increase. Officials there said it would equate to an extra $1.50 for each 6,000 gallons of water.

All of these increases would have to be voted on, which could happen in May or June.

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Duke Energy said it has been hit hard by rising fuel costs that could lead to rate increases for Charlotte-area customers later this year. The company has asked the state utilities commission to consider raising rates for Duke Energy Carolinas customers.

If approved, rates would increase in two stages in September and January. They said a typical bill would increase about 6.6% for residential customers.

(WATCH BELOW: Families feel sting of inflation as prices for gas and groceries increase in Charlotte area)