Helping Ease Winter Struggle's Goal of PSC Cold Weather Rule

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HELPING EASE WINTER STRUGGLE'S GOAL
OF PSC COLD WEATHER RULE

Lincoln, October 30, 2024- Winter months can be trying, that's
why the Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) is reminding
customers served by the state's jurisdictional natural gas utilities
of its cold weather rule.

From November 1-through-March 31, Black Hills Energy, and
NorthWestern Energy cannot shut-off service to customers without
allowing an additional 30 days to pay beyond the normal bill due
date. During this period customers of Black Hills Energy or
NorthWestern Energy who are finding it difficult to pay natural gas
bills should contact the company to arrange payment.

"Despite our mild start to the fall-winter season, we know it won't
last," said Commission Chair Dan Watermeier. "Having the cold
weather rule in place allows jurisdictional natural gas providers to
work with their customers to help ensure service is uninterrupted
at a time when natural gas usage is typically higher."

The PSC implemented the cold weather rule more than 20 years
ago,when it was given regulatory authority over the Nebraska's
jurisdictional natural gas utilities. It is important to note that
Nebraska communities with municipally owned natural gas utilities
are not subject to regulation by the PSC and are not required to
comply with the cold weather rule.

Local public assistance agencies can also be contacted for help
with natural gas bills including the Nebraska Department of Health
and Human Services Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
(LIHEAP) and the Salvation Army.

Consumers are also encouraged to take steps to help minimize the
impact of higher natural gas prices during the winter months. Gas
utilities recommend lowering the thermostat to 68 degrees or lower
and to reduce thermostat settings when a home or building is
unoccupied. Obtain a home energy audit plan to conserve energy
and if available participate in your gas company's yearly budget plan
to spread cost throughout the years. ###

Contact:
Deb Collins- Communications & Media Mgr.
(402) 471-0226 / [email protected]