FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NOVEMBER TRIGGERS PSC COLD WEATHER RULE
Lincoln, October 30, 2023- The month of November means
the start of the Nebraska Public Service Commission’s (PSC)
cold weather rule. The cold weather rule provides financially
strapped customers of Nebraska’s jurisdictional natural gas
utilities a little extra time to pay their bills.
From November 1-through-March 31, Black Hills Energy,
and NorthWestern Energy cannot shut off service to
customers without allowing an additional 30 days to pay
beyond the normal bill due date.
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 PSC
and are not required to comply with the cold weather rule.
“We are all hoping to catch a break with natural gas prices
this fall and winter seasons,” said Commission Chair Dan
Watermeier. “If not, the cold weather rule lets jurisdictional
natural gas suppliers, and their customers work together to
help ensure service is uninterrupted during a time when
natural gas usage is typically highest.”
Customer finding it difficult to pay natural gas bills should
contact the company to arrange payment. Local public
assistance agencies can also be contacted for help with
natural gas bills including the Nebraska Department of
Health and Humans Service and the Salvation Army.
Taking steps to minimize the impact of higher natural gas
prices during the winter months is also important. Consumers
can take steps to help lower costs by setting their thermostat
a little lower. 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 cost through the year.
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Contact:
Deb Collins- Communications & Media Mgr.
(402) 471-0226 /deb.collins@nebraska.gov
