INDIANA — The upcoming winter heating season may be the most expensive in several years, and consumers should be preparing now.
Indiana’s major natural gas utilities issued their winter billing projections in October, forecasting higher bills than last winter due largely to market conditions. The projections are based on current data and assume average weather. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) is projecting upcoming winter natural gas spot prices to average their highest levels since 2007-08.
Utilities buy natural gas in a competitive wholesale market and recover the costs through rates on a dollar-for-dollar basis. They may not profit on the wholesale cost pass-throughs, which require Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) review and Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) approval before taking effect.
Consumers who need financial assistance are encouraged to contact the statewide Indiana 211 help line, either by calling 2-1-1 or visiting https://in211.communityos.org/ to learn about local options that may be available.
The federally funded Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is accepting applications now, along with new federal water bill assistance. Qualifying consumers can learn more, apply, and see a list of local LIHEAP service providers on the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority’s (IHCDA’s) website at www.in.gov/ihcda/homeowners-and-renters/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap/. Consumers without internet access may call IHCDA toll-free at 1-800-872-0371 to get connected to a network of community action agencies.
Township trustees and certain utilities also offer financial assistance. IHCDA has additional information at www.in.gov/ihcda/homeowners-and-renters/.
All consumers should consider budget billing options. Most Indiana electric and natural gas utilities offer budget billing, which provides a consistent monthly payment.
This is also a good time to schedule a home heating system tune-up, especially if you have not had one in some time. Regular maintenance is crucial for making sure an HVAC system is working efficiently and safely.