New survey shows rising costs of energy in Texas, greater disparity for low

A new survey shows one in three Texans now spends 7% or more of their household income on electricity during the summer.

That's according to a new survey by the University of Houston and Texas Southern University , which polled 1,650 Texans, found that energy costs not only are rising but also specifically hurt low-income and minority Texans.

The survey shows the average monthly summer bill in Texas is $168, and nearly 45% of Texans pay more than $200 per month for electricity.

The survey also shows 19% of Texans reported having to choose between paying for energy or essentials like food, medicine, or rent.

The hardship rates were higher among Black and Hispanic Texans than their white and Asian counterparts, and, according to the survey, more than 1/3 of Texans who make under $30,00