National Grid, an energy supplier to many Long Island homes, forecasts slightly lower natural gas bills this winter.
The utility company expects residential gas customers to pay about $880 from November to March, which is $8 less than what they were paying last year.
What could raise rates is if the temperature takes an unexpected dip to severely cold conditions, or if wholesale energy prices—where National Grid gets its supply—are raised. The utility said in a recent statement that the company tries to offset market price volatility by buying and storing natural gas during the summer when it’s less expensive. Higher than normal energy consumption—possibly also due to frigid temperatures—could spike supply prices on customer’s energy bills.
John Bruckner, the utility’s New York president, contends households should reduce the impact on their bills by employing energy efficient strategies, including using smart thermostats, lighting and water-saving products.
“Even with a forecast of lower bills, we remind customers to use energy wisely and take advantage of our various energy efficiency programs,” Mr. Bruckner said. “Simple steps taken now—like changing furnace filters, increasing insulation, sealing windows and doors—can help control energy costs this winter and all year round.”
National Grid provides different billing options to help customers budget their payments more evenly throughout the year. Income-eligible households and the elderly can qualify for the federal Home Energy Assistance Program for financial aid options.
on Nov 13, 2018