U.S. power costs have reached multi-year highs, with natural gas prices hitting $90 per megawatt-hour in 2026, marking their highest level in at least 17 years. This surge is attributed to escalating data-center demand and volatile fuel prices. In addition, the cost of solar and onshore wind energy has increased by more than 10%, reaching their highest points since at least 2014. These rising generation costs are impacting utility bills, becoming a significant political issue ahead of the November midterm elections. Several states are implementing measures such as bill credits and rebates to alleviate the financial burden on households.
Key Takeaways
Pricing suggests that increased power costs may be consistent with scenarios where crude oil production costs also rise.
The market for crude oil reaching a new all-time high by September 30 shows a slight increase in YES probability, now at 5.4%.
Political responses to rising utility bills, such as rebates, indicate growing concern about the economic impact on households.
