LINCOLN, OCTOBER 26, 2018- The Nebraska Public Service Commissions (PSC) cold weather rule takes effect beginning November 1. The cold weather rule provides financially strapped customers of Nebraskas jurisdictional natural gas utilities a little extra time to pay their bills.
The PSCs cold weather rule applies only to customers of the states jurisdictional utilities, Black
Hills Energy, which now includes both Black Hills and legacy SourceGas Distribution service
territories, and Northwestern Energy.
From November 1-through-March 31, Black Hills and Northwestern may not shut off service to
customers without allowing an additional 30 days to pay beyond the normal bill due date.
Weve already experienced a taste of what may be this winter, said Commission chair Mary
Ridder. The cold weather rule enables natural gas suppliers and customers to work together to
ensure service for everyone during a time when natural gas bills are often the highest.
Customers finding it difficult to pay natural gas bills should contact the company to arrange
payment. Customers can also contact local public assistance agencies for help with natural gas bills.
The PSC implemented the cold weather rule when it was given regulatory authority over the
states jurisdictional utilities in 2003. Nebraska communities served by municipally owned
natural gas utilities are not subject to regulation by the Commission and are not required to
comply with the cold weather rule.
Consumers are reminded that minimizing the impact of higher natural gas prices during the
winter is also important. Consumers can take steps to help lower costs by setting the thermostat a little cooler. 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 companys yearly budget plan to spread costs throughout the year.
Other ideas include, improving the insulation in a home by installing storm windows and doors,
attaching clear plastic to the inside or outside of windows and screen doors, caulking around
windows and door frames, and covering window air conditioners.