MPSC: Customers of Michigan's Natural Gas Utilities See Falling Natural Gas Prices So Far This Heating Season

Contact:  Judy Palnau, 517-241-3323
Agency:  Michigan Public Service Commission

January 12, 2012 - The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today noted that customers of Michigan's major natural gas utilities have seen reductions in what they are paying for natural gas because of warmer than normal temperatures so far this heating season and high underground storage levels. 

To date this heating season, temperatures are 15 percent warmer than average, and storage levels are over 13 percent above the five-year average.

Since the start of the heating season in November, all Michigan natural gas utility companies have set gas cost recovery (GCR) factors below their authorized caps. 

"Natural gas customers can save even more money by dialing down thermostats and making their homes more energy efficient," added MPSC Chairman John D. Quackenbush.  "All natural gas and electric utilities in Michigan now offer energy efficiency programs to assist customers in cutting their bills, so customers now have additional opportunities to make improvements.  Energy efficiency programs vary by utility, so customers should check with their utility for details."

Additional energy efficiency tips are located on the MPSC's Be WinterWise website:  michigan.gov/BeWinterWise or by calling the MPSC at 1-800-292-9555.

The MPSC is an agency within the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

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