Nebraska’s cold weather natural gas rule kicks in Sunday

    Beginning Nov. 1, the Nebraska Public Service Commission’s (PSC) cold weather rule will take effect.
    The cold weather rule provides financially strapped customers of natural gas utilities in Nebraska a little extra time to pay their bills.
    From Nov. 1 through March 31, Black Hills Energy and NorthWestern Energy may not shut off service to customers without allowing an additional 30 days to pay beyond the normal bill due date.
    “As we to head into our winter months it is important for natural gas suppliers’ and customers to work together to help ensure service is uninterrupted,” said Commission chair Mary Ridder.
    Customers finding it difficult to pay their 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 state’s jurisdictional utilities in 2003.
    Nebraska communities served by municipally-owned natural gas utilities are not subject to PSC regulation 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.
    People can take steps to help lower costs by setting the thermostat a little lower. Gas utilities recommend 68 degrees or lower, and to reduce thermostat setting 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 company’s yearly budget plan to spread costs throughout the year.
    Other ideas to conserve energy costs include improving 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.