(LOOTPRESS) – Households should prepare for higher heating expenses this winter, with the average cost to keep a home warm expected to reach $976, according to the National Energy Assistance Directors Association.

The projected increase of nearly 8% from last year is attributed to rising natural gas and electricity prices.

The Center for American Progress reported that several utility companies have already raised rates or plan to do so in the coming months.

Despite the higher energy costs, federal assistance funding for utility bills has remained at $4 million for the past two years.

Lawmakers are expected to maintain this funding level for the new fiscal year, which begins October 1.

Experts encourage households to budget carefully and explore energy-saving measures to help offset t

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