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July 1, 2008
Naperville, IL – As natural gas commodity prices remain high, Nicor Gas is encouraging customers to take advantage of the summer months to plan ahead for the upcoming winter heating season.
The company has filed a July gas supply charge (GSC) of $1.45 per therm with the Illinois Commerce Commission, up 22 cents compared to June. The cost Nicor Gas pays for natural gas is passed through to customers with no mark-up; the company does not make a profit on the cost of natural gas.
Natural Gas Prices
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the relatively low volumes of liquefied natural gas imported so far this year, lower-than-average working gas in storage, the uncertainty related to possible hurricane activity over the next several months, and the expectation that crude oil prices will remain high, natural gas futures prices continue their upward trend.
The American Gas Association (AGA) advises that natural gas prices remain at the forefront of gas market issues and the possible increases in customer bills for the 2008-2009 winter heating season looms large. "Planning ahead for winter heating costs is always a good idea. With the expectation that natural gas cost may continue to rise, we urge our customers to take time now to prepare and establish ways that can help them manage possible higher heating costs this winter," said Kevin Kirby, Vice President Customer Care for Nicor Gas.
Nicor Gas offers its customers a variety of bill payment programs, and there is financial assistance for those who qualify, all of which can help with managing gas bills. Customers can find a wealth of information regarding ways to use energy wisely in their homes by visiting the company's Web site at www.nicorgas.com under "Managing Your Gas Costs."
Budget Planning
One of the bill payment options available to customers is the Nicor Gas Budget Plan. The Budget Plan provides a convenient way for customers to pay their natural gas bill every month as well as a great payment option for customers who like to plan ahead. Payments are spread out over a 12-month period and are periodically adjusted to correct for future gas prices and expected usage. Customers interested in signing up for the Budget Plan can sign up online or call 1-888-Nicor4U (642-6748).
Energy Efficiency Tools
Nicor Gas also offers many helpful energy efficiency resources, including Energy Depot. Energy Depot can be used to generate a personal energy profile as well as calculate the annual energy costs for the customer's complete range of home energy systems and appliances. Customers can also access tips on how to save money on their natural gas bills in Keeping the Warmth In and the Cold Out, free guide on how to use energy wisely. Both of these helpful tools are accessible through Nicor Gas' Web site.
For additional information about managing gas costs, please visit www.nicorgas.com.
Nicor Gas is one of the nation's largest gas distribution companies. Owned by Nicor Inc. (NYSE: GAS) a holding company, Nicor Gas has provided safe and reliable natural gas services for over 50 years. The Company serves more than two million customers in a service territory that encompasses most of the northern third of Illinois, excluding the city of Chicago. For more information on Nicor Gas, visit www.nicorgas.com.
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