BETHLEHEM, Pa. — UGI Utilities Inc. on Wednesday announced a smaller-than-expected increase in the purchased gas cost rate beginning Dec. 1.
As a result, it said only a nominal increase is anticipated for consumers.
In a news release, the company said the average residential heating customer receiving gas supply from UGI will see his or her total bill increase 0.9%, raising a total average monthly bill from $118.43 per month to $119.49 per month.
It reminded consumers that utilities are required by law to pass the cost of the natural gas they purchase directly through to consumers without any markup.
Gas increase follows electric
The announcement comes the same week the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, or PUC, alerted consumers that energy supply prices for all regulated electric utilities will adjust Dec. 1.
In the Lehigh Valley, PPL Electric and Met-Ed both will see price increases — PPL from 12.49 to 12.953 ¢/kWh (+3.7%) and Met-Ed from 11.905 to 12.965 ¢/kWh (+8.9%) — that can be instantly compared to other prices at papowerswitch.com.
But unlike electric, there is no single reset date for gas energy prices, a PUC spokesman said. Instead, gas utilities adjust their “purchase gas costs” on a cycle that’s different from the electric utilities.
Those shopping for natural gas rates and the price to compare can do so at https://www.pagasswitch.com/.
Assistance for consumers
UGI said it recognizes customers may have difficulty paying their heating bill, and urged those with a limited or fixed income to visit www.ugi.com/customerassistance or call 1-800-UGI-WARM to determine if they are eligible for one of several energy assistance programs.
UGI said it also can assist eligible customers in applying for federally funded Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, grants when the application process opens Dec. 3.
Consumers can apply for LIHEAP at the PA Compass website, or download an application to submit in person or by mail to your local county assistance office.
In addition, UGI offers budget billing, as well as multiple payment options such as via UGI’s online account center and app, and an auto-pay program to assist customers in managing bill payments.
Additional information on energy efficiency programs is available on UGI’s website at www.ugi.com/energy-saving-tips.
