November Signals Start of Nebraska's Natural Gas Cold Weather Rule

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November Signals Start of Nebraska’s
   Natural Gas Cold Weather Rule

Lincoln, October 26, 2018- The Nebraska Public Service Commission’s (PSC) cold weather rule takes effect beginning November 1. The cold weather rule provides financially strapped customers of Nebraska’s jurisdictional natural gas utilities a little extra time to pay their bills.

The PSC’s cold weather rule applies only to customers of the state’s jurisdictional utilities, Black Hills Energy, which now includes both Black Hills and legacy SourceGas Distribution service territories, and Northwestern Energy.

From November 1-through-March 31, Black Hills and Northwestern may not shut off service to customers without allowing an additional 30 days to pay beyond the normal bill due date.

“We’ve already experienced a taste of what may be this winter,” said Commission chair Mary Ridder. “The cold weather rule enables natural gas suppliers and customers to work together to ensure service for everyone during a time when natural gas bills are often the highest.”

Customers finding it difficult to pay natural gas bills should contact the company to arrange payment. Customers can also contact local public assistance agencies for help with natural gas bills.

The PSC implemented the cold weather rule when it was given regulatory authority over the state’s jurisdictional utilities in 2003. Nebraska communities served by municipally owned natural gas utilities are not subject to regulation by the Commission and are not required to comply with the cold weather rule.

Consumers are reminded that minimizing the impact of higher natural gas prices during the winter is also important. Consumers can take steps to help lower costs by setting the thermostat a little cooler. Gas utilities recommend 68 degrees or lower, and to reduce thermostat settings when a home or building is unoccupied. Check gas appliances and space-heating equipment for efficient operation. Obtain a home energy audit to identify ways to conserve energy and participate in a gas company’s yearly budget plan to spread costs throughout the year.

Other ideas include, improving the insulation in a home by installing storm windows and doors, attaching clear plastic to the inside or outside of windows and screen doors, caulking around windows and doorframes, and covering window air conditioners. ###

Contact:
Deb Collins- Media & Communications Mgr.
(402) 471-0226
deb.collins@nebraska.gov