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High natural gas prices predicted

Forecasters are predicting higher natural gas prices this winter due to shut down of production in the Gulf of Mexico in the wake of Hurricane Katrina as well as increasing demand. This situation means the average residential heating bill could be more than 23 percent higher this winter than last year and prices are likely to go even higher. Demand for natural gas continues to rise as growing percentage of electric generation and residential heating comes from natural gas.

In light of these predicted high energy prices this winter, the Georgia Public Service Commission urges consumers to begin preparations for the winter season before the cold weather hits. Wholesale natural gas prices are not controlled by the state of Georgia or Georgia’s utilities. They fluctuate with the national market. Higher prices and a colder winter mean you may have to pay more to heat your home.

Consumers can manage and possibly reduce their winter heating costs by taking the following steps:

• Conserve energy. Consumers can control their energy costs by using energy wisely and more efficiently. Proper insulation around doors and windows, buying energy-efficient appliances and installing programmable thermostats are some of the measures consumers can take. For more information, see the Consumer Corner section at www.psc.state.ga.us.

• Enroll in budget billing. Consumers can spread out their natural gas utility payments over a 12-month period by signing up for budget billing through their utility provider or natural gas marketer. However, there may be a periodic true-up during the year or at the end of the 12 months.

• Apply for energy bill assistance. Consumers may qualify for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, as well as other assistance programs. For more information, consumers can call their local Community Action Agency at 1-800- 869-1150 or 404-657-3425.

• Check out marketers plan offerings. For consumers in the Atlanta Gas Light Company delivery area who like the security of knowing the rate they will pay for gas, a fixed rate plan might be appropriate. The natural gas marketers’ price list compares the annual cost of an average user that consumes 880 therms of gas if locked in for 12 months at the publised rates. Consumers can visit www.psc.state.ga.us/gas/pricedard.html to obtain the most up-to-date fixed rates.