Press Release

PUC: As Natural Gas Distribution Companies Brace for Winter, Consumers Should Also Prepare

Published on 11/19/2014

Filed under: Gas

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today announced that the state’s natural gas distribution companies (NGDCs) are preparing for the winter season and also reminded consumers to do the same.

Each of the companies provided a winter readiness overview to the Commission.  They can be viewed on the PUC website.

“As the temperatures begin to drop, our natural gas companies are busy prepping for the winter season,” said PUC Chairman Robert F. Powelson.  “Now is the perfect time for consumers to also prepare for the higher energy costs associated with the colder temperatures. Take steps around the house now to conserve and also check your energy supplier contracts to lock in the lowest possible price for the season.”

Pennsylvania’s NGDCs expect natural gas supplies to be adequate for the expected demand in the 2014-15 winter heating season. NGDCs prepare for the winter season by utilizing their winter readiness programs that include: preventive maintenance on equipment and facilities; frost patrols; leak surveys; and regulator and meter inspections. These programs ensure natural gas service continues in a safe and reliable manner through periods of increased demand and below-freezing temperatures. 

Conservation tips for consumers are available on the Prepare Now page on the PUC website.  Consumers are encouraged to visit www.PAPowerSwitch.com and www.PAGasSwitch.com for additional information on how to shop for a supplier and how to read the fine print in their contracts.

In its 12^th year, the PUC’s Prepare Now campaign provides consumers with simple tips to lower their energy bills, including shopping for electricity and natural gas, as well as tips to conserve energy around the house. It also offers information about low-income programs that help consumers restore and maintain service.

The PUC also issued a letter to utility CEOs last month, reminding them to take extra steps to help consumers, especially those on limited and fixed incomes. Utilities have been asked to respond with actions they plan to implement.

Prepare Now for winter energy costs. Learn more about conservation. Check your electric and natural gas bills and supplier contracts. Use PAPowerSwitch.com to shop for service. Look into programs that help low-income customers maintain service. Visit www.puc.pa.gov and click on "Prepare Now" or call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380. #PrepareNow

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter – @PA_PUC for all things utility. “Like” PAPowerSwitch on Facebook for easy access to information on electric shopping.

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Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov