Press Release

Natural Gas Utilities, Suppliers and Experts to Brief PUC on Reliability for Winter

Published on 9/29/2008

Filed under: Electric Gas

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today announced its annual Winter Reliability Assessment meeting, which provides a snapshot of various conditions that may affect natural gas supply, price and service reliability for the upcoming winter, will be held Oct. 1 in Harrisburg.

The Winter Reliability Assessment meeting will begin at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1 in Hearing Room 5 of the Commonwealth Keystone Building. Representatives from the PUC, Energy Association of Pennsylvania, UGI Energy Services, Texas Eastern Interstate Pipeline, state Department of Public Welfare and Pennsylvania One Call System Inc. will provide information.

The annual meeting builds on the PUC’s efforts to help consumers “Prepare Now” for winter. On Sept. 11, 2008, the Commission released a report that shows that the average natural gas customer using 15 Mcf of natural gas will see their monthly bill increase by $38.12 (17.69 percent) from $218.69 in winter 2007 to $256.80 in winter 2008. Some prices consumers actually pay will be higher and others lower – depending on usage, and changes in market prices relative to these estimated prices.  A chart of the natural gas increases is available on the Commission's Web site.

The Commission also kicked off its sixth winter in which it is urging consumers to “Prepare Now” on Sept. 11, 2008. The message is simple: “Prepare Now” for higher energy costs this winter.  Learn about changes in the law related to utility shut-offs and know your rights.  Save money by learning how to conserve energy.  Heat your home safely.  Explore budget billing options. Look into programs that help low-income customers restore and maintain service. Visit www.puc.state.pa.us, and click on “Prepare Now” or call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380. The PUC also is actively participating in Gov. Rendell’s third annual Stay Warm PA campaign. Visit www.staywarmpa.com for more information.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our Web site at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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  717-787-5722