Alabama Power customers have received three rate reductions since June. But they may not realize it this very chilly winter.

The unusually cold weather in late December and the record-setting cold in January led to record- setting demand from customers. Three times this past January, the record for winter demand was set, and then broken. In fact, Alabama Power customers used about 45 percent more electricity in January 2010 than the previous month according to an AP release.

It turns out January 2010 was the coldest January in a quarter century. The average hourly temperature was 40.3 degrees – 6.5 degrees colder than the 10-year normal. And so far in February, the continued cold has kept customer demand higher than the same period last year.

While January power bills reflected the record-setting usage by customers, they also included a rate reduction that took effect Jan. 1.

Indeed, rates for all customers averaged about 10 percent lower in January compared to a year earlier.

In addition to the rate reduction that took effect in January, the company reduced rates in February, and has another reduction coming in April. In all, the company’s rate reductions since June will total nearly 12 percent.

Still, the ongoing cold weather is having an impact on many customers’ bills. Alabama Power is encouraging any customer who has a question about a bill, or is having trouble paying a bill, to call customer service toll-free at 1-800-245-2244. The company will work with customers to arrange a reasonable payment plan. Alabama Power customers may also want to consider signing up for Budget Billing, a free service in which the company averages out customers’ seasonal usage so that they pay about the same each month, all year.

Another option for some customers is Project SHARE, which Alabama Power helped found with the American Red Cross. Project SHARE assists eligible individuals with their utility bills. Contact the local Red Cross office for more information.

Meanwhile, there’s still time for customers to make simple energy-efficiency improvements this winter that can help them save money. For example, turning down the thermostat to 68 degrees or lower during the winter can make a difference on your power bill. And using inexpensive weather stripping can help keep cold air out and warm air in. Wrapping an electric water heater with an insulating blanket, available at most home-improvement stores, can also lead to savings. Be sure to clean or change air system filters monthly, and open the blinds on bright days to let in the sun’s natural warmth.

For more wintertime energy-saving tips, go to www.alabamapower.com, or call the company’s customer service line to request an energy-efficiency guide.