A new federal report shows that electricity service in the United States was disconnected 13.4 million times and gas service 1.7 million times in 2024. The data, collected under a 2023 congressional law, reveal the scale of financial distress among households unable to pay utility bills. Researchers say the figures are far higher than previously estimated, raising concerns about energy insecurity across the country.

The report highlights that southern states recorded the highest disconnection rates, with Oklahoma leading where nearly three in ten customers lost service. Other states with high rates include Texas, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas. Experts attribute the surge to high poverty levels, rising energy prices, long hot seasons, and weak consumer protections. The Trump administration has again proposed eliminating the $4 billion LIHEAP program that helps low-income Americans pay energy bills, though Congress has previously rejected such moves.

Analysts warn that the situation may worsen, as electricity prices rose by more than 11 percent nationwide in 2025. Consumer groups are calling for stricter limits on utility profits and stronger rules to prevent service disconnections.