FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 30, 2025
PSC FIRES UP WINTER PROTECTION
WITH COLD WEATHER RULE
STARTING NOV. 1
LINCOLN – As temperatures begin to plunge, the Nebraska
Public Service Commission (PSC) is reminding natural gas
customers of its Cold Weather Rule that provides additional
protection from service disconnection Nov. 1 through March 31.
During this period, the state’s two jurisdictional natural gas
utilities – 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. Customers
anticipating difficulty paying their natural gas bill should contact
the provider to make payment arrangements.
“We want to ensure every household stays safe and warm through
the winter months,” said PSC Chair Tim Schram, District 3. “If
you’re facing challenges paying your utility bill, reach out to your
provider before disconnection becomes a risk.”
The PSC adopted the Cold Weather Rule more than 20 years ago,
when it assumed regulatory oversight of Nebraska’s jurisdictional
natural gas utilities. It is important to note that municipally owned
natural gas utilities are not subject to PSC regulation and are not
required to comply with the Cold Weather Rule.
The PSC encourages any customers facing hardship to contact their
utility providers early to discuss payment plans or assistance options.
“The Cold Weather Rule isn’t just about preventing shutoffs – it’s
about communication,” said Nichole Mulcahy, director of the PSC
Natural Gas Department. “When customers stay in touch with their
utility company and make a plan, they can avoid unnecessary
service disruptions this season.”
Customers can also contact energy assistance programs such as
Salvation Army HeatShare and the Nebraska Department of Health
and Human Services Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
(LIHEAP).
Additional resources are available on the PSC Natural Gas
Department’s consumer webpage or by contacting
psc.naturalgas@nebraska.gov.
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Media Contact:
Jason McFarley – Public Information & Education Officer
(402) 471-0226
jason.mcfarley@nebraska.gov
