NIPSCO is warning customers to expect higher natural gas bills this winter. The utility says it expects to pay more for natural gas due to market conditions — costs that are out of its control and will be passed along to customers. The average residential customer can expect to pay about $661 over the five-month "heating season," assuming normal weather, about $100 more than last year.
NIPSCO says it does take steps to control costs by purchasing gas over a period of time from various sources and then storing it for the winter. It says it's also working to make its distribution system more efficient.
The utility encourages those who may have trouble paying to see if they qualify for help like flexible payment plans and payment assistance programs.
