By Alex Benzegala
Panhandle Post
By Nebraska Public Service Commission
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 agas company’s yearly budget plan to spread cost through the year.