Many jobs along the Grand Strand are seasonal with unemployment fluctuating as much as 4 percent between January and June. Those who work seasonal jobs must save earnings over the tourist season in order to support the household through the winter.

Unfortunately, energy bills are at their highest in the winter months when unemployment is at its highest and people are most likely unable to afford it. These two counties rely heavily on tourism and do not accurately reflect South Carolina’s overall unemployment rate;  these unemployment rates are much more unstable. In some states, during the winter months, utilities are not permitted to shut off electricity due to temperatures. In South Carolina, however, utilities can turn off power, with notice, in the winter and require a deposit not exceeding 2 months estimated billing costs for reconnection.

 

References

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